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ADDicted

Name: ADDicted
Director: Dan Jenski
Released: 2017

Representation Score

6.5/10

Good

2017

TV-14

Director

Dan Jenski

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

ADDicted is a character-driven drama that delves into the psychological complexities of neurodivergence and institutional pressure. It succeeds in providing a deeper look at the protagonist's journey for autonomy and trust. However, the film lacks significant breadth in other areas. The narrative remains focused on traditional romantic structures and does not prominently feature characters from diverse racial or LGBTQ+ backgrounds. While the film offers a sophisticated critique of modern societal coping mechanisms, its demographic focus remains narrow, primarily centering on a demographic that does not highlight diverse ethnic backgrounds.

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Category Breakdown

Does ADDicted have LGBTQ+ representation?

Fair

The story centers on a relationship between Drew and Ashley, which follows traditional heterosexual norms. There are no characters with non-binary or LGBTQ+ identities.

How does ADDicted portray gender?

Fair

Kate, a mother running for the U.S. House of Representatives, demonstrates strong female leadership. However, the narrative also emphasizes traditional maternal roles.

How racially and ethnically diverse is ADDicted?

Limited

The narrative focuses on collegiate and political pressures but does not highlight characters from diverse racial or ethnic backgrounds.

How does ADDicted represent religion and culture?

Fair

The film critiques modern Western structures through themes of academic integrity and political life. It also examines the role of the pharmaceutical industry in societal coping mechanisms.

Does ADDicted include disability representation?

Good

Drew’s experience with ADD provides a nuanced look at neurodivergence. The film explores his struggle for autonomy and self-trust without relying on simple inspiration clichés.

Present on Screen

Provides a nuanced, control-focused portrayal of neurodivergence and ADD.
Explores complex female leadership through a character navigating a political campaign.
Offers a thoughtful critique of pharmaceutical dependency and institutional pressures.

Limited or Absent

Lacks explicit representation of LGBTQ+ identities or non-assuming gender matches what was assigned at birth characters.
Shows limited evidence of racial or ethnic diversity within the cast.
Relies on traditional maternal archetypes for female characterization.

Official Synopsis

Classes. Football. Finals. A bad break up. An over-bearing mom. Like many college kids, what helps Drew Dawson stay balanced is Adderall, a prescription he's been on since age 10 for ADD. His ex-girlfriend Ashley Ross is trying to win him back by helping him with school, but Drew finds himself suspended from the football team when his professor, Jeff Mueller accuses him of plagiarism. The pressure mounts as he must get back on the team and appease his mother, Kate, who is in the public eye as she is running for a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives. As his life spirals out of control, Professor Mueller offers to help. What will it take for Drew to wake up and trust in himself without Adderall?

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