Will Poulter, the British actor known for his versatile roles, takes on a challenging and deeply personal project in the new opioid drama, Union County. In this film, Poulter plays a young man named Cody, who struggles with self-respect and is ready to embark on a journey of recovery. The movie, directed by Adam Meeks, is a powerful portrayal of a real-life drug recovery court in Bellefontaine, Ohio, and features a mix of narrative and documentary-style elements.
Poulter's performance in Union County showcases his ability to embody a character's inner turmoil and quiet pride. He shares the screen with Noah Centineo, and the supporting cast includes first-time actors who bring their own real-life stories of recovery to the film. Poulter's natural approach to the role adds to the authenticity of the film, making it a deeply affecting watch.
One of the key aspects of Union County is its focus on the success of the recovery program, which has an impressive over 50% success rate. Poulter emphasizes the importance of platforming this success, as Hollywood often gets addiction stories wrong, with superficial treatments in films like Beautiful Boy and Ben Is Back. Poulter's dedication to his craft is evident in his rigorous training for roles in The Bear and Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 3, but he also embraces unexpected opportunities, such as canoodling in a music video and guest judging on RuPaul's Drag Race.
The film highlights the devastating impact of stigma and misinformation surrounding addiction. Poulter argues that society holds individuals struggling with addiction to the same standards as those who have received consistent affirmation and support. He believes that the stigmatization of addicts is a significant issue, as people often fail to consider the complex circumstances that lead to substance use disorders, such as domestic violence and eviction. Poulter's political activism, including his support for Palestine, migrants, and LGBTQ+ rights, further emphasizes his commitment to addressing social issues.
Despite the challenges of filming Union County, Poulter's dedication to the project is evident. He expresses his admiration for Annette Deao, a drug dependency counselor, and the real participants in the recovery program. The actor's emotional experience on set pales in comparison to the ongoing recovery journey of the participants, which he finds deeply moving. Poulter's personal connection to the film is further emphasized by his road trip with Meeks and Deao to screen Union County in small movie theaters in Ohio, where he appreciates the sacred nature of independent cinemas.
Looking ahead, Poulter aims to maintain a balance between mainstream films and independent projects. He expresses his love for independent film and his desire to continue working in this genre. While his future in the Marvel cinematic universe remains uncertain, Poulter's dedication to his craft and his commitment to social causes make him a versatile and thought-provoking actor, ready to take on new challenges and inspire audiences with his powerful performances.
