Making a good movie about addictions is difficult. Many are so somber that I find them unwatchable. “Thanks For Sharing” tackles the problem of addictions in an adult way with characters that are all too human. The film focuses mostly on addictions to sex, although some of the characters also suffer from drug and alcohol problems. Early in the movie a female character, who does not suffer from this problem, jokes that she always thought that addiction to sex was an excuse a husband gives for his indiscretions. Three main characters, two men and one woman, show that this compulsion is not a joke but a problem that almost rules their lives.
Mark Ruffalo is the shining star of his 12-step group. He has successfully, but with great difficulty, coped with his problem for many years. Josh Gad, a young doctor, denies he has a problem and faces severe consequences. Gad and Ruffalo’s characters are the main focus of the film, which, I think, vividly portrays what it is like to suffer from an addiction that most of us would deny exists.
The DVD jacket calls this an “unconventional romantic comedy.” I am not sure that description truly fits this movie. Although Gad’s character is somewhat the comic relief in the film, most of the plot is quite serious.