Netflix’s newest series, Painkiller, dives deep into the harrowing world of the opioid crisis, painting a chilling portrait of a societal betrayal rooted in corporate greed. Based on Barry Meier’s 2003 investigative non-fiction book, this series unravels the sinister web of addiction and death left in the wake of a so-called “wonder drug.”
In an insightful conversation with CGMagazine, Eric Newman, the mastermind behind Netflix hits like Narcos, and Barry Meier, the former New York Times journalist whose groundbreaking work inspired the series, offers a glimpse into the making of this Painkiller. The duo discusses the challenges of adapting true events for the screen, the imperative of authenticity, and the balance between entertainment and education.
Let’s start with how the process of bringing Painkiller to Netflix unfolded. How closely did it adhere to the book?
Eric Newman: Um, the process by which the show came together actually happened pretty quickly, not in relation to the book being published, but when it came to me, with Barry and Alex Gibney and Patrick Radden Keefe, as well as Micah Fitzerman-blue and Noah Harpster. It had a little bit of a life that had preceded it at another company.
I was coming off of a number of seasons of a show in a similar space about drugs, different, obviously, in a lot of ways, but with some similarities. And it was presented to me in a very early form, and I got involved instantly. And I would say from the time that first meeting took place, it was, you know, a couple of years to this point, which is not a particularly long gestation period for getting a show made.
How crucial do you believe Painkiller is in highlighting the events that surrounded it? When producing the series, how concerned were you about ensuring authenticity and avoiding the romanticization of grave events?
Barry Meier: The filmmakers had to make decisions that I didn’t face, given my role as a journalist presenting facts. One of my initial concerns before viewing the series was whether they would take liberties with the story or introduce elements that might seem far-fetched. However, I believe they did an outstanding job. They took the facts from the book and, while dramatizing and fictionalizing them, managed to elevate and illuminate the story in a way that’s challenging to achieve purely through journalism.
Eric Newman: I think authenticity is crucial in storytelling. I apply a principle from my experience with science fiction films: when you’re asking someone to accept a premise far removed from reality, the authenticity in conveying that story becomes paramount. Considering the conspiracy central to this narrative and the actions of the company and its leaders, it’s hard to grasp such a reality. There’s an innate human tendency to detach from what seems unbelievable. Hence, when crafting a story like this, it’s vital that every character, situation, and the setting feels 100% authentic.
CGMagazine: For those unfamiliar with this crisis, what elements of Painkiller would entice them to watch? While the story is serious, why can the series still be enjoyed on its own merits?
Eric Newman: The key takeaway we hope for is that people recognize this as one of the most significant betrayals of public trust ever. This situation arose from overlooked questions and deliberate obfuscation by a company aiming for hefty profits. Our main objective was to appeal to the broadest audience, which led us to craft an engaging and entertaining show.
By the time viewers grasp the extent of the tragedy, they’re already deeply invested. There’s a rendition of this tale that might be too sorrowful to watch from the beginning. Hence, we aimed to produce an entertaining adaptation ensuring as many of Netflix’s 260 million subscribers as possible tune in. It underscores the message that such events have occurred and could recur if we don’t heed the lessons.
Barry Meier: And I would just add that as a lover of suspense shows on TV. This is. A crime show. It’s a show about a medical mystery. And it’s a show about a tragedy. And I think that once you absorb all of this and the incredible characters portrayed in it, you will walk away more outraged than you’ve ever felt before.
Thank you so much for your time. Thank you. Looking forward to seeing what people think of Painkiller when it give it a chance.
