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Nov 13, 2015 By Zach Hollwedel Web Exclusive

When confronted with family tragedy, James White, a New Yorker in his late-20s, turns not to family, but to drugs and alcohol as coping mechanisms. White abandons his mother during his late father’s shiva, running out to seek solace in the self-destructive behavior that has come to define his existence. Soon, he runs as far as Mexico in an attempt to cast off his New York-based burdens. His escape is short lived, however, when his mother’s terminal illness draws him back to the city—and lifestyle—that threatens to do him in, and which inhibits his personal growth.

Christopher Abbott (Girls, Martha Marcy May Marlene) plays the titular screw-up. His is a deep, moving, heartbreaking performance, a powerful depiction of a character that might be beyond the point of salvation. White’s addictions and vices are so all consuming that not even the most visceral needs of his family can prevent him fro succumbing to his demons. He tries—admirably—but remains trapped in an endless cycle of intoxication and disappointment. The people who support him never seem to do enough (he thinks), even though they carry him and put up with more than any friend, significant other, or mother could reasonably be asked. Scott Mescudi, Makenzie Leigh, and Cynthia Nixon are perfectly cast in those respective roles, and it’s clear in each case they love and want White to succeed.

Still, despite the strength he receives from others, White seems oblivious to his support structures. His demons are firmly behind the wheel throughout the picture—to the point of near frustration—and if there’s a light at the end of the tunnel, it is very distant and dim. Perhaps that’s what makes James White so solid a film—its depiction of addiction. It’s a hopeless disease, a coping mechanism that only truly serves to make any situation worse. James White, both the film and the character, is a prime representation of this. It is by no means a happy film; there is no ribbon wrapped prettily around it at the end. But it is a well-acted, powerful, deep film spotlighted by commanding performances.

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Author rating: 6.5/10