Drunks

This film about an Alcoholics Anonymous meeting was a tough sell even at art houses. But those who can handle a stiff shot of reality will find the drama's impact undiluted on the small screen. Set mostly in a church basement (a mise-en-scene that loses little on video), Drunks assembles a brilliant bunch of actors who take turns telling their characters' horror stories in riveting monologues. For counterpoint, there's Richard Lewis, surprisingly good as a grieving widower who bolts the meeting and heads for the nearest bar. But despite all the personal tragedies, these sober alcoholics' survival instincts offer a glimmer of light. What could have been a real bummer becomes, shakily, hopeful. B+