Choose Satire, Choose Iggy Pop, Choose Trainspotting

Drug addiction and unemployment unearth a dark and gloomy side of reality that reminds us of how imperfect the world is. When portrayed in film, song or other artistic forms, drug abuse is approached with a depressing, shameful tone that seems to exclusively reference how miserable life can be. One rarely associates humor, or a comedic attitude with drug addiction.

Enter the film Trainspotting. Set in Scotland during the mid 90s, it follows Renton (Ewan McGregor), Sick Boy (Jonny Lee Miller), Begbie (Robert Carlyle) and Spud (Ewen Bremner), all of whom are young adults addicted to heroin. The plot revolves around the characters dodging AIDS and overdoses, as well as avoiding any sense of responsibility to themselves, each other or society. It is narrated by Renton, and follows his gradual path to sobriety. Through his narration the audience gains insight to his thoughts on society, as well as his bizarre and unusual life philosophies. We watch as he chooses between drugs, friends, money and family, while also trying to reintegrate himself into a world he feels as though he has been cast out from.

What makes this film so funny is its flawless use of sarcasm and satire, as well as its balance of both shock value and minimalism. The choices of the characters lead to outrageous, tragic and over-the-top consequences that would horrify and ruin an average person. Not only are the characters unable to see how severe these consequences are, they fail to recognize any wrong doing on their behalf at all. As the film progresses, the audience slowly begins to realize that Renton and his friends are complete narcissists with no redeeming qualities. With this, Trainspotting plays off a very dark and unusual sense of humor that does not necessarily appeal to everyone. But, when shown to the right person, this film proves to be utterly hilarious.

But, Trainspotting is more than just a ridiculous film. It openly criticizes significant modern issues, such as prescription drugs, social isolation and even occasionally references injustices in the court of law. It also rejects the life of an average consumer, questioning the significance of everything from insurance to electrical appliances. With this, Trainspotting is a surprisingly thought provoking film, and can lead to interesting debates and conversations among viewers. Also, the film emphasizes the importance of humor and lightheartedness, even amongst the most terrible people in the most terrible situations. Upon viewing this film, one can look to find spontaneous moments of ridiculousness in their own environment, which has the potential to change their perception of life.

Upon its release, Trainspotting had a respectable influence on pop-culture. The film’s soundtrack includes several songs by Iggy Pop and Lou Reed, which reintroduced the two beloved artists to a new generation of youth, and arguably helped revitalized their careers. Also, through its depiction of night clubs and use of electronic music, it helped popularize a rave scene throughout England. The electronic group Underworld, would ultimately receive a decent amount of exposure due to their contributions to the film's soundtrack. Overall Trainspotting's soundtrack is one of the most recognized and respected in the modern movie industry. But it is not just the sound track that had a cultural contribution. The visual aesthetic and attitude of the film perfectly embodied that of the 1990s, cementing its spot in popular culture.

With its twisted sense of humor and unique social commentary,Trainspotting separates itself from other films. Renton and his friends are an unforgettable cast of characters who give the audience a chance to step into a reality that is so distant from their own. Watching Trainspotting is an irreplicable experience, and quite simply is a fun movie to watch.