28 Days

Gwen Cummings, played by Sandra Bullock, is a free-spirited and vivacious young woman who has a penchant for drinking. On the eve of her sister's wedding, Gwen gets behind the wheel of her car after a night of drinking, and her reckless behavior culminates in a car accident. The consequences of her actions are severe, as she is charged with a DUI and given the option to spend time in prison or check herself into a rehabilitation center. Despite the severity of the situation, Gwen is unmoved and decides to go to rehab, not to confront her drinking problem, but rather to avoid going to prison. At the rehab center, Gwen is greeted by the strict and no-nonsense Dr. Turlington, played by a memorable Viggo Mortensen, and a team of therapists who are determined to help her overcome her addiction. However, Gwen is resistant to any form of treatment, and her initial attitude is one of resentment and defiance. She mocks the treatment programs and dismisses the idea that she has a drinking problem, insisting that she is perfectly capable of controlling her drinking. Her interactions with the other patients at the rehab center are tense and strained, as she tries to navigate the complex social dynamics and avoid participating in group therapy. One patient at the center is a recovering addict named Nico, played by a subtle Aidan Quinn. Nico takes an interest in Gwen's case and tries to connect with her on a personal level, but Gwen rebuffs him at every turn. Despite this, the two begin to develop a tentative friendship, and Nico becomes a confidant for Gwen as she struggles to come to terms with her addiction. As the days pass, Gwen is forced to confront the damage that her drinking has caused to her life and relationships. She is particularly close to her sister, Abby, who is marrying on the day of the accident, and the shame and guilt of her actions weigh heavily on Gwen. Her struggles also take a toll on her relationships with the other patients at the center, particularly a young and idealistic woman named Holly, played by Elizabeth Perkins, who sees Gwen as a threat to her own sobriety. Throughout the film, Gwen's behavior becomes increasingly erratic and self-destructive, but she shows flashes of vulnerability and sensitivity, particularly in her interactions with her sister and Nico. Her journey towards recovery is marked by setbacks and relapses, but also moments of growth and self-awareness. As the story progresses, Gwen is forced to confront the underlying causes of her addiction, including her childhood trauma and her deep-seated need for control and self-medication. Her journey towards recovery is not an easy or straightforward one, but through her relationships with the other patients at the center and the guidance of her therapist, Gwen begins to see the error of her ways and the possibility of a new life without addiction. Ultimately, the film is a powerful and nuanced portrayal of addiction and the complexities of recovery. The performances of the cast, particularly Bullock, are outstanding, and the direction is thoughtful and insightful. The film is a powerful reminder of the dangers of addiction and the importance of seeking help and support on the journey towards recovery. With its thought-provoking themes and strong performances, 28 Days is a film that will leave viewers thinking long after the credits roll.