Watch The Line
- 2021
- 1 Season
The Line is a new documentary series from Apple TV+ that chronicles the rise of the opioid epidemic and the role played by Purdue Pharma and its owners, the Sackler family. Over the course of four episodes, The Line takes viewers through the history of the Sacklers and their company, Purdue Pharma, which developed and aggressively marketed the prescription pain medication OxyContin. The series traces the drug's introduction in the mid-1990s and its rapid growth in popularity, spurred in part by Purdue's aggressive and deceptive marketing tactics. At the heart of The Line are interviews with former Purdue employees, government officials, and people affected by the opioid epidemic, including those who have lost loved ones to addiction. They provide a first-hand account of Purdue's tactics, including ways in which the company downplayed the risks of OxyContin and ignored evidence of its addictive properties. The Line also chronicles the impact of Purdue's actions on communities across the country. The series introduces viewers to people who have been affected by opioid addiction, including family members and friends, as well as those who have lost their jobs, homes, and opportunities because of the epidemic. Overall, The Line is a powerful and deeply affecting look at a crisis that has affected millions of people across the United States. It sheds light on the way in which corporate greed and the pursuit of profit have contributed to a public health disaster, and provides a human face to a tragedy that has often been invisible to many Americans. The production value of The Line is impressive, with high-quality cinematography and sound mixing that adds to the gravitas of the series. The interviews are conducted with sensitivity and care, and the series doesn't shy away from difficult conversations about addiction, trauma, and loss. One of the strengths of The Line is its dedication to exploring the complexity of the opioid epidemic. While Purdue Pharma and the Sackler family are certainly held responsible for their role in the crisis, the series also acknowledges the ways in which systemic problems in the healthcare and criminal justice systems have contributed to the epidemic's growth. Ultimately, The Line is a call to action, urging viewers to take action to address the opioid epidemic in their own communities. It is a harrowing but essential series for anyone who cares about social justice, public health, and the impact of corporate greed on American society.
