The Boy Who Drank Too Much

Synopsis

The Boy Who Drank Too Much is a poignant 1980 drama that explores the struggles of a young man battling alcoholism. The film stars Scott Baio as a talented high school hockey player whose life begins to spiral out of control due to his increasing dependence on alcohol. As he grapples with denial, family tensions, and the pressures of adolescence, the story provides a heartfelt look at the impact of addiction and the possibility of recovery. The narrative sensitively portrays the challenges faced by young adults, highlighting both the physical and emotional consequences of substance abuse, while ultimately delivering a message of hope and the importance of seeking help.

Cast

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  Scott Baio

  Buff Saunders

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  Lance Kerwin

  Billy Carpenter

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  Ed Lauter

  Gus Carpenter

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  Mariclare Costello

  Louise Carpenter

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  Don Murray

  Ken Saunders

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  Stephen Davies

  Alan

Reviews

The Boy Who Drank Too Much has received mixed to moderately positive reviews since its release. On IMDb, it holds a rating of 6.7/10, reflecting a generally favorable but varied audience response. Critics praised Scott Baio's sincere and earnest performance, noting that it brought authenticity to the difficult subject matter. The film was appreciated for its straightforward and educational approach to teenage alcoholism, avoiding sensationalism and instead encouraging understanding and empathy. Some reviewers, however, felt the film’s pacing was slow and that its made-for-television style limited its dramatic impact. Rotten Tomatoes does not have a critical consensus due to the film's age and niche status, but user reviews often commend its heartfelt storytelling and cautionary message. Metacritic does not list a score, as the film predates the platform. Overall, the film is regarded as a significant, if somewhat dated, drama that contributed to discussions about youth substance abuse in the early 1980s.