CANDY (2006) (***)
This "drugs are hell" film doesn't blaze any new territory. However, a solid script and powerful performances makes this bleak film worth seeing. Additionally, the film will probably gain some cult recognition for featuring one of the last performances of Heath Ledger, whose recent death has been rumored to be drug-related. It's a cautionary tale that presents the idea that a drug user doesn't want to stop when they can and can't stop when the want to.
Dan (Ledger) is a fledgling poet who has fallen for the promising painter Candy (Abbie Cornish, ELIZABETH: THE GOLDEN AGE). Dan comes from a turbulent family life, while Candy had a more stable upbringing, but not any better in the emotional support department. Candy has been on edge her entire life due to her demanding mother (Noni Hazlehurst). Her father Jim (Tony Martin) is a caring parent, but one who refuses to confront the problems that are right in front of him. Dan and Candy get into recreational drug use through the older Chemistry professor Casper (Geoffrey Rush, QUILLS). Before too long, the young couple has sold most of their possessions to fund their drug addiction. Later they will fall further and further into more destructive, demeaning and dangerous behavior.