Whiskey School Directed by Peter Masterson and written by Jo Ann Tedesco, film stars Olympia Dukakis, Carlin Glynn Lainie Kazan, Mary Stuart Masterson and Gary Swanson. A 'Drama a' Clef' based upon the actual intervention of a somewhat infamous American playwright the film is an exploration of the frustrating and frightening mental roller-coaster ride an alcoholic faces in his battle against the pain, shame and actual hostility which his disorder wreaks.