Shooting Sizemore
By Lucy Maher,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Gritty, post-rehab reality show isn't for kids.
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What's the Story?
In SHOOTING SIZEMORE, cameras follow actor Tom Sizemore as he attempts to rebuild his life after being convicted of domestic battery and forced to enter a drug rehab program. After starting a relationship with former "Hollywood madam" Heidi Fleiss, Sizemore -- who has appeared in movies like Black Hawk Down and Pearl Harbor -- became addicted to crystal meth and heroin, filed for bankruptcy and was charged with physically assaulting Fleiss. Sizemore was sentenced to 17 months in jail and a stint in rehab. With the help of his personal assistant, Luree, and his "sober companion" Byron, Sizemore testifies in court and deals with finding a place to live, but viewers will also see snippets of footage that Sizemore shot when he was descending into drug abuse, many of which take the form of rants directed at the camera.
Is It Any Good?
Sizemore's descent is eye-opening. He routinely states that he worked very hard to find success in Hollywood and appears almost surprised at how easily he ruined his career. The soliloquies from his drug-fueled days are harrowing, and it's sad to see him have to start over from scratch. Though it's arguable that giving him is own reality show is quite a helping hand, Sizemore comes across as a determined person eager to put his life back together. The themes and mature content make this one for older teens only; even then, parents might want to watch with their kids to answer questions and put Sizemore's struggles in context.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about drug abuse. Why do people take drugs when they know they can be addictive and harmful? What makes someone an addict? What happens in rehab? How does drug abuse affect those close to the abuser? What messages does the show send about drug abuse and addiction? What do you think might have happened to Sizemore if he wasn't famous?
TV Details
- Premiere date: January 7, 2007
- Cast: Tom Sizemore
- Network: VH1
- Genre: Reality TV
- TV rating: TV-14
- Last updated: February 28, 2022
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