Painkiller

Painkiller is a drama series that chronicles the origins of the opioid crisis in America, focusing on the Purdue Pharma company and the devastating impact of the OxyContin medication. It examines the pharmaceutical industry's alleged role in fueling addiction and the lives of those affected by it, from executives to addicts.

Painkiller received mixed reviews from critics. While many praised the performances, particularly Uzo Aduba's, and the series' ambition in tackling such a complex and tragic subject, some found the tone uneven, oscillating between a serious examination of the crisis and a more sensationalized approach.

• Praised for strong performances from its lead actors.

• Criticized for an inconsistent tone that sometimes undermines the gravity of the subject matter.

• Acknowledged for attempting to shed light on the complex opioid crisis.

Google audience: Google users generally appreciated the series for its informative nature and the compelling performances, especially noting its effectiveness in illustrating the devastating scope of the opioid epidemic. Some viewers found it difficult to watch due to the sensitive subject matter, but overall, the audience response was positive.

Matthew Broderick's casting as the fictional pharmaceutical executive Richard Sackler was seen as a departure from his typically wholesome roles, aiming to portray a more calculating and villainous character.