American Drug War: The Last White Hope
American Drug War presents a critical look at the United States’ long-standing war on drugs. Directed by Kevin Booth, it was inspired by the deaths of four of his family members from legal drugs. Through interviews with a diverse range of individuals, including gang members, former DEA agents, CIA officers, narcotics officers, judges, politicians, prisoners, and celebrities, it paints a complex picture of the drug war’s impact on American society.
The film follows Booth as he investigates why the drug war has become such a costly and prolonged conflict. It highlights the paradox of the war’s failure to curb drug use and trafficking, despite decades of effort and massive financial investment. It pays particular attention to the case of “Freeway” Ricky Ross, a man accused of starting the crack epidemic, who discovered that his cocaine source had connections to the CIA.
Throughout the documentary, Booth explores various aspects of the drug war, including its economic implications, its effect on incarceration rates, and its disproportionate impact on certain communities. It also touches on controversial topics such as the alleged CIA involvement in drug trafficking and the role of pharmaceutical companies in the opioid crisis.
The film presents arguments from both proponents and critics of the war on drugs. It features interviews with figures like Arizona’s Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio, known for his tough stance on drug offenses, as well as those who advocate for drug policy reform. By presenting these diverse perspectives, the documentary aims to provide a multifaceted view of the ongoing debate surrounding drug policy in the United States.