Lost Weekend, The (1945)

This dark, "sober" award-winning film is quintessential Billy Wilder. In fact, preview audiences had such a negative reaction to the film's stark realism that it was almost never released! Ray Milland won an Oscar for his performance as a hopeless alcoholic, and Wilder won for Best Director and Best Screenplay. The film itself won Best Picture. Jane Wyman, who co-stars as Milland's love interest, is terrific as the strong woman who struggles to help her man overcome his addiction. "The Lost Weekend" uses the classic flashback device to perfection, intoxicating the audience with bits and pieces of the puzzle as the mystery behind Milland's addiction unfolds, and the memorable hospital scene features one of the best supporting roles ever written. Great acting, great writing, and a great story makes this film a true classic.

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