150 Milligrams

La Fille de Brest

150 Milligrams (La Fille de Brest) is a French drama film directed by Emmanuelle Bercot, released in 2016. The film is based on the true story of Irène Frachon, a pulmonologist at the Brest University Hospital in France, who discovers a direct link between a number of suspicious deaths and the state-approved use of a diabetes drug, Mediator, produced by the pharmaceutical company Servier Laboratories. The movie highlights the challenges and obstacles Frachon faces as she attempts to expose the truth about the drug's deadly side effects.

Plot

The film opens with Irène Frachon embarking on her investigation after noticing an unusual number of patients suffering from severe heart problems. As she delves deeper, Frachon uncovers that these issues are associated with the long-term use of Mediator, a drug that has been widely prescribed for diabetes and overweight patients, despite its severe side effects. Determined to bring this issue to light, Frachon faces opposition from powerful adversaries, including the pharmaceutical company behind Mediator and government health officials who are reluctant to take action.

Throughout her journey, Frachon is supported by a small team of allies who share her commitment to uncovering the truth. Together, they embark on a difficult path to gather evidence, raise public awareness, and fight for justice for the victims of Mediator.

Cast

• Sidse Babett Knudsen as Irène Frachon
• Benoît Magimel as Antoine Le Bihan
• Charlotte Laemmel as Corinne Zacharria
• Isabelle de Hertogh as Patricia
• Lara Neumann as Céline
• Patrick Ligardes as Michel Aubier

Production

Directed by Emmanuelle Bercot, 150 Milligrams is adapted from Irène Frachon's book, Mediator 150 mg: Combien de morts? The film was shot in various locations, including Brest, where the real-life story took place. It aims to shed light on the David vs. Goliath battle fought by Frachon and her team against a powerful pharmaceutical company and the challenges of bringing a health scandal to public attention.

Reception

150 Milligrams received critical acclaim for its gripping narrative, strong performances, especially by Sidse Babett Knudsen, and its portrayal of a significant health scandal in France. The film highlights the importance of integrity, courage, and perseverance in the face of adversity. It has been recognized for its contribution to raising awareness about the dangers of pharmaceutical malpractices and the importance of regulatory oversight in the healthcare industry.

See Also

• Pharmaceutical industry
• Drug safety
• Healthcare in France
• Medical ethics