About Meth Storm (HBO)

Meth Storm is a 2017 HBO documentary that provides a harrowing, on-the-ground look at the ravages of the methamphetamine crisis in rural America. The film presents a close and personal perspective of the struggle faced by impoverished communities dealing with addiction and law enforcement's battle to stem the tide.

Making / Production

Produced by HBO Documentary Films, Meth Storm was directed by Brent and Craig Renaud. The film, shot in cinema-verite style, depicts an intimate and stark look at the lives of people entangled in the world of meth, both as users and enforcers. The story focuses on the small town of Ouachita County, Arkansas, an area hit hard by the drug epidemic.

Actors

• Veronica Converse - The main subject of the documentary, Veronica is a meth addict struggling to maintain her habit in a place with an increasing scarcity of the drug. Her portrayal is raw and gritty, giving the viewer an unflinching view into the realities of addiction.
• Russell Converse - Veronica's son, also an addict, who faces the challenges of managing his addiction and dealing with the law.
• Several Law Enforcement Officers - The documentary also features local law enforcement officers who are fighting an uphill battle against the rampant drug problems in their community.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The documentary takes a unique approach by also focusing on the perspective of law enforcement, showing their efforts to combat methamphetamine production and abuse in the community.
• Meth Storm depicts the shift in the meth market from local production to more potent imports from Mexican cartels.

Quotes

• "You never know how it feels until it hits your family." - Veronica, illustrating the personal cost of addiction.
• "I can't help what I am. I'm just a junkie." - A stark admission from one of the subjects in the documentary about their addiction.

Music, Soundtrack

Unlike many mainstream movies, Meth Storm doesn't feature a traditional musical score or soundtrack, maintaining the documentary's raw and direct approach.