The Power of Representation
The world of film and television has the remarkable ability to reflect and shape our perceptions of the world. It is a medium that can be both a mirror, showing us aspects of our own lives and society, and a window, providing a glimpse into the experiences of others. One critical aspect of representation in media is the portrayal of individuals with disabilities and chronic illnesses.
Even though I can’t eat, and have to sit out on the best movie snacks and popcorn, I still love watching movies and TV shows. As someone with a chronic illness and disability, they’re an easy way for me to rest and distract myself.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the significance of disability representation in entertainment. Keep reading for a list of the best disability movies and TV shows that have made impactful contributions to this crucial narrative.
Why Disability Representation Matters
Shifting Perceptions
At its core, disability in film and television serves as a powerful tool for changing societal perceptions. It challenges preconceived notions, shedding light on the lives of individuals with disabilities and chronic illnesses, and offering a new lens through which we can understand their experiences.
Empowerment and Visibility
For individuals with disabilities, seeing characters who share their struggles and triumphs can be deeply empowering. Movies showing disability provide not only role models but also a voice, advocating for greater visibility and understanding. Many disability rights movies provide important representation and inspiration.
Challenging Stereotypes
Disability in film and television have the potential to challenge stereotypes and dismantle harmful misconceptions about disabilities. By portraying characters with depth and authenticity, media contributes to the broader goal of creating a more inclusive world.
The Classics: Movies that Paved the Way
In the past, disability stereotypes in movies were all too common. I’ve found that movies about disability have been improving significantly in their ability to accurately portray disability and chronic illness. Progress is slow, and there are still very few movies and TV shows overall that focus on or highlight disability and chronic illness. Many of the disability film stereotypes and disability tropes in movies are less present today, and there are many more options of strong movies about disability.
To start our list off, here are four classic films about disability:
- Forrest Gump (1994)
Starring Tom Hanks, this dramatic and heart-wrenching movie follows several decades in the life of a man named Forrest Gump. Throughout his life, he struggles with several physical and intellectual disabilities.
- My Left Foot (1989)
This classic film delves into the life of Christy Brown, an Irish artist and writer with cerebral palsy, who achieved remarkable success despite his physical challenges. Daniel Day-Lewis’s portrayal earned him an Academy Award, setting a high standard for disability representation in cinema.
- Rain Man (1988)
“Rain Man” offers a poignant look at the relationship between two brothers, one of whom has autism. Dustin Hoffman’s exceptional performance not only garnered critical acclaim but also played a pivotal role in raising awareness about autism.
- The Elephant Man (1980)
“The Elephant Man” tells the heart-wrenching story of John Merrick, a man with severe physical deformities. This film goes beyond the surface to reveal the humanity and resilience within its protagonist, highlighting the importance of treating all individuals with respect and compassion.
New Disability Movies and TV Shows
TV shows also allow writers to really delve into their characters, showing them as multi-dimensional people, with various wants and needs, hopes and dreams.
There are two types of films that deal with disability and chronic illness issues. First, there are disability themed movies and TV shows, that focus on disability. Secondly, there are movies and TV shows about any topic that have main and secondary characters with disabilities.
There are so many movies about disability on Netflix, disability movies on Disney Plus, and disability movies on Hulu and other streaming platforms, such as Apple TV and Amazon Prime. Here are some of best disability movies on Netflix and Disney Plus:
Disability Movies on Netflix
- Brain on Fire (2016)
In this biographical drama based on a true story, Chloe Grace Moretz portrays 21-year-old Susannah Cahalan, a New York Post writer who develops a mysterious illness. After her behaviour becomes more erratic, Susannah seeks medical treatment. She is misdiagnosed with schizophrenia, before being properly diagnosed with a rare illness of brain inflammation.
- The Fundamentals of Caring (2016)
In this comedy-drama, a caregiver and his charge, a teenager with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, embark on a road trip filled with humor and heartwarming moments. “The Fundamentals of Caring” explores the complexities of caregiving and the bonds that form along the way. Selena Gomez is also in this movie, and she has become an outspoken advocate for mental health in recent years.
- The Theory of Everything (2014)
In this biographical film, Eddie Redmayne portrays the brilliant physicist Stephen Hawking, who battled motor neuron disease. The film masterfully depicts Hawking’s journey, showcasing his intellect, determination, and the complexities of living with a disability.
- Still Alice (2014)
Still Alice revolves around a Columbia University professor diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. Julianne Moore won the Academy Award for Best Actress for her performance of Alice. The movie centers around how she, her husband, and three adult children cope with her disease. It is a good example of intellectual disability in movies.
Disability Movies on Disney Plus
- Finding Dory (2016)
Finding Dory is another animated movie by Pixar and Disney. The movie is a follow up to Finding Nemo, focusing on Dory, a fish with amnesia, as she sets out to be reunited with her parents.
- Frozen (2013)
With it’s star-studded cast including Kristen Bell, Idina Menzel, Josh Gad, and Jonathan Groff, Frozen has been absolutely everywhere. The movie’s disability focus is on Princess Elsa, whose powers have accidentally trapped her kingdom in an eternal winter. As kids, Elsa accidentally injured her sister Anna with her magic. Anna is healed from her injury, but her memory of Elsa’s magic is erased. Elsa, fearing her own powers, becomes isolated from society and her own sister.
- The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996)
There are many disability Disney movies. The Hunchback of Notre Dame was one of the first – a Disney animated musical drama film, loosely based on the 1831 novel by Victor Hugo. The movie focuses on Quasimodo, a bellringer with a physical deformity who yearns to explore the outside world and be accepted by society.
Romance Movies With Disabled Characters
- The Fault in Our Stars (2014)
This coming-of-age romance movie is based on the novel by John Green. The movie stars Shailene Woodley and Ansel Elgort, who both play cancer patients. John Green has several books that deal with chronic illness, mental health, and disability, including Paper Towns and Turtles All the Way Down.
- Love & Other Drugs (2010)
Love and Other Drugs is one of the first mainstream movies about disability and love that focuses on a love story between adults, rather than teenagers. Starring Anne Hathaway and Jake Gyllenhaal, the movie focuses on the love story between their characters. Anne Hathaway’s character is suffering from early onset Parkinson’s.
TV Shows About Disability
- Sex Education (2019-2023)
Sex Education has just released its final season on Netflix. It is a British teen sex comedy drama series, following several characters dealing with personal dilemmas. In terms of disability, many of the character struggle with a variety of health issues. One character, Isaac Goodwin, is in a wheelchair throughout the series. Isaac is portrayed by George Robinson, a tetraplegic who uses a power-assisted manual wheelchair.
- Special (2019-2021)
Special is an American comedy series that offers a unique perspective on the life of a young man with cerebral palsy. The show is a semi-biographical account of Ryan O’Connell’s (the star of the show) life as a gay man with cerebral palsy. Through humor and authenticity, the show challenges stereotypes and invites viewers into the world of a person with a disability pursuing independence and adventure.
- Atypical (2017-2021)
Atypical is another American comedy-drama show created for Netflix. The show focuses on 18-year-old Sam Gardner, who is on the autism spectrum. While the first season was criticized for its lack of autistic actors and inaccuracies in its depiction of autism, the show really took this criticism on board to improve its future seasons.
Other Disability Movies
- Shazam! Fury of the Gods (2023)
The second movie in this series, Shazam is a superhero film in the DC Extended Universe. Shazam’s human foster brother Billy has a physical disability, and plays an important role in helping the superheroes. Both movies are available on Apple TV.
- The Peanut Butter Falcon (2019)
This heartwarming film follows Zak, a young man with Down syndrome, on an adventure to pursue his dreams. “The Peanut Butter Falcon” highlights the power of friendship, determination, and the pursuit of one’s passions, regardless of disability. It is currently available on Apple TV and Amazon Prime.
- Becoming Bulletproof (2014)
This documentary explores the making of a film within a film, with actors with and without disabilities coming together to create a unique cinematic experience. “Becoming Bulletproof” advocates for inclusivity in the entertainment industry and celebrates the talent and diversity of its cast.
- Murderball (2005)
“Murderball” takes viewers into the intense and competitive world of quadriplegic rugby athletes. The film showcases their resilience on and off the court, challenging misconceptions about what individuals with disabilities can achieve.
Resources and Organizations
Disability Film Festivals
Discover the world of disability film festivals, where stories that explore the experiences of individuals with disabilities take center stage. These festivals provide a platform for filmmakers to share powerful narratives and foster discussions on disability representation.
In Canada, the ReelAbilities Film Festival Toronto is dedicated to showcasing shorts, features, and documentaries about disability.
Internationally, there are several film festivals, including the Art Without Limit International Film Festival, which shows films focusing on people with disabilities.
Advocacy and Support
Learn about organizations and advocacy groups dedicated to promoting disability inclusion and representation in the entertainment industry. These entities work tirelessly to ensure that individuals with disabilities have a voice and are authentically represented on screen.
A More Inclusive Tomorrow
In conclusion, the power of representation in film and television is undeniable. By actively seeking out and supporting content that portrays the experiences of individuals with disabilities and chronic illnesses, we contribute to a more inclusive and empathetic society. Film and television have the potential to break down barriers, challenge stereotypes, and offer a more diverse and authentic view of the world. As viewers, we play a crucial role in shaping the future of disability representation in entertainment. So get comfy, grab your popcorn (if you can), and start watching!