"Trainspotting"

              Hop on board the fast - paced train through disgruntled youth in Danny Boyle's "Trainspotting".  This 1996 film sheds light on the dirty and gritty life of heroin as we follow Ewan McGregor's character Renton through his dilemma of accepting a modern materialistic life or a fast - paced dangerous heroin addicted one.  McGregor has appeared in Boyle's first three films, beginning with "Shallow Grave" that was a successful British film.  Boyle's most recent and popular works are the Academy Award winning picture "Slumdog Millionaire" in 2008 and the nominated "127 Hours" in 2010.
            "Trainspotting" takes us into the pop punk anarchy of Ireland, which immediately makes me think of beer pubs...and heroin.  Opening with Renton being chased by authorities along with a voice over that puts a middle finger up to today's materialism,"choose the big screen TV while your sitting there stuffing junk food into your mouth".  The cast of characters gives dimension to the film.  Sick Boy, Spud, Tommy, and Begbie are the beer drinking Irish junkies that accompany Renton through his addiction.  This film questions today's values from the youth's perspective.
             Boyle's editing is abrupt and quick escalating the story and the soundtrack gives a great tribute to punk artist such as Lou Reed and Iggy Pop, many of his songs such as "Lust for Life" and "Nightclubbing" are used to add meaning to scenes.  Bottom line is "who needs reasons when you've got heroin".  Along with this fast ride, you may also pick up some good traditional Irish slang after taking the ride with "Trainspotting".