Angel Death

Genre: Educational

Year Published: 1978

Creator: Dave Bell Associates

Format: 16mm

Sound: sound

Description: The 1978 anti-drug film *Angel Death* explores the devastating effects of the drug PCP (phencyclidine), which was originally developed as an anesthetic but discontinued due to severe side effects like agitation, delusions, and violence. Narrated by Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward, the documentary combines personal accounts, expert interviews, and disturbing animal experiments to illustrate the drug's physiological and psychological impact. The film highlights the rise of PCP use in the 1960s and 1970s, particularly among youth in Los Angeles, where it became popular due to its affordability and ease of production. Former users describe intense euphoria, god-like delusions, and violent tendencies while under the influence. A 12-year-old and a 15-year-old user share their experiences, with one overdosing during filming. The documentary also examines the drug's long-term effects, including chronic brain syndrome and emotional numbness, as seen in a woman named Jackie, who struggles with guilt and detachment after witnessing a friend's death while on PCP. Animal experiments, including tests on a cheetah and a chimpanzee, demonstrate the drug's effects on the brain and body, such as convulsions and overstimulation of brain activity. Experts explain that PCP is stored in fat cells, allowing it to re-enter the brain long after use, complicating recovery. The film also features interviews with dealers, law enforcement, and convicted users, including a man who committed murder while under the influence. Through harrowing personal stories, group counseling sessions, and graphic footage, *Angel Death* underscores the dangers of PCP, its impact on individuals and communities, and the challenges of treatment and recovery. The film concludes with a somber reflection on the lives lost and damaged by the drug.

Complete Record: Title from data sheet Longer version (48 min.) also issued The 1978 anti-drug film *Angel Death* explores the devastating effects of the drug PCP (phencyclidine), which was originally developed as an anesthetic but discontinued due to severe side effects like agitation, delusions, and violence. Narrated by Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward, the documentary combines personal accounts, expert interviews, and disturbing animal experiments to illustrate the drug's physiological and psychological impact. The film highlights the rise of PCP use in the 1960s and 1970s, particularly among youth in Los Angeles, where it became popular due to its affordability and ease of production. Former users describe intense euphoria, god-like delusions, and violent tendencies while under the influence. A 12-year-old and a 15-year-old user share their experiences, with one overdosing during filming. The documentary also examines the drug's long-term effects, including chronic brain syndrome and emotional numbness, as seen in a woman named Jackie, who struggles with guilt and detachment after witnessing a friend's death while on PCP. Animal experiments, including tests on a cheetah and a chimpanzee, demonstrate the drug's effects on the brain and body, such as convulsions and overstimulation of brain activity. Experts explain that PCP is stored in fat cells, allowing it to re-enter the brain long after use, complicating recovery. The film also features interviews with dealers, law enforcement, and convicted users, including a man who committed murder while under the influence. Through harrowing personal stories, group counseling sessions, and graphic footage, *Angel Death* underscores the dangers of PCP, its impact on individuals and communities, and the challenges of treatment and recovery. The film concludes with a somber reflection on the lives lost and damaged by the drug.