The film focuses on the story of Eddie Morra (Bradley Cooper), a writer who is having trouble starting his book. But he later takes the powerful NZT-48, which allows him to focus, and he writes the best that he’s ever written. Color contrasts and time lapse scenes remind viewers that these creative films have not died out yet, and with the uplifting composition of these scenes, viewers can’t help but think of only the positive effects of taking the mind-opening pills. Who wouldn’t want to be able to write a research paper with ease? Beware—like other drugs, NZT-48 is extremely addictive.

Morra soon becomes a millionaire from learning and analyzing the stock market and later becomes a major player who works for Carl Von Loon (Robert De Niro) in the (literally) cut-throat finance world. However, Morra quickly discovers the side effects of withdrawing from the drug, which are shown through impressive, dramatic upside-down shots and blurred screens. Better yet, the side effect of time-lapse is fancifully shown by taking viewers through all of New York City in an emotional roller-coaster. Along with the artsy execution, the twisty plot makes this film an incredible masterpiece.

What is most terrifying about the film is the portrayal of the addiction to the drugs. In one scene, Morra had to drink the blood of another person to get a fix of the NZT-48. Even more terrifying is the things Morra achieves from taking the drugs, like learning to speak fluently multiple languages in a short amount of time. But in actuality, is it really worth it?