Around the Fire (1998)

Born into Manhattan's high society, Simon's life is a woven tapestry of privilege and constraint, shadowed by the enigmatic death of his mother. His father, Matt, a towering figure in the business world, quickly remarries Lauren, a woman whose flawless facade doesn't fool Simon, who harbors suspicions of a pre-existing affair. This reshuffled family dynamic sets Simon on a journey beyond his ivory tower upbringing. As he navigates the unfamiliar corridors of a new boarding school, his path crosses with Andrew, a liberating spirit who opens Simon's world to the tantalizing allure of marijuana and LSD. Through Andrew, Simon plunges into a bustling, vibrant community of dreamers, misfits, and nomads whose lives revolve around the euphoria of music festivals. This bountiful world of freedom and creativity presents Simon with the sense of belonging he's been yearning for. Among this eclectic group, Simon finds companionship in Jennifer, a radiant young hippie, Trace, a fellow wanderer, and Kevin, a man living his final days to the fullest due to a fatal AIDS diagnosis. As he explores the depths of this newfound lifestyle, Simon grapples with an internal battle between the life his father has meticulously mapped out for him and the emotional turbulence threatening to consume him. In a whirlpool of poor choices, Simon is thrust into a stringent drug rehabilitation program under the firm, yet compassionate guidance of Kate. Within these austere confines, Simon is forced to confront his own image, stripped of all illusions. He learns a harsh yet necessary lesson: without the courage to seek his own truth, his pursuit of happiness will remain an elusive dream.

Around the Fire is a drama movie featuring Bill Smitrovich and directed by John M. Jacobsen.

Around the Fire is currently streaming for free (ad-supported) on Freevee, Redbox and Tubi TV.

It is also possible to buy Around the Fire on Amazon Video and Vudu.