Disabilities, popular culture, critics, Joseph Merrick, Proteus syndrome, David Lynch, circus animal, BBC television
In this movie, we follow the life of Joseph Merrick, an Englishman who lived in the 19th century afflicted with Proteus syndrome. He was exhibited as a circus animal, a common practice then known as 'human zoos'. This film delves into the perception of disabilities such as Proteus syndrome in the Victorian era, providing an introspective look into that historical period.
[...] The organs and tissues affected by this condition are disproportionately large compared to the rest of the body. This abnormal enlargement of certain organs and tissues is generally asymmetrical. In 2018, the casting of a non-disabled actor for the lead role in the BBC television adaptation of "The Elephant Man" sparked controversy, reminding that the inauthentic representation of disability remains a significant issue in the film industry. For example, the movie "Me Before You" directed by Thea Sharrock, in which the representation of disability doesn’t accurately reflect the challenges and realities faced by disabled people. [...]
[...] They are seen as circus attractions or exploitable commodities for profit, constantly dehumanized and abused. Furthermore, the film highlights how disabled people are often excluded and marginalized, deprived of opportunities for social and economic participation. Overall, the film denounces the injustices faced by disabled people and puts forward a moral that proves that you have to go beyond appearance to reach the spirit of a disabled person. Changing Faces recently published research revealing that 28% of individuals with a visible difference have been victims of a hate crime, and 35% of these individuals now feel nervous when leaving their homes. [...]
[...] These themes remain relevant even 45 years after, as evidenced by Lynch's exploration of hypocrisy, describing “exploitation disguised as benevolence as an obstacle to the autonomy and complete freedom of disabled people.†Some critics argue that the film can sometimes fall into sensationalism, “focusing more on the shocking visual aspects of Merrick's disability than on his personhood and humanity". Some question the historical accuracy of certain events in the film, although this is common in cinematic adaptations of biographies. Film genre: biographical film Director: David Lynch Release date: 1980. Synopsis: We follow the life of Joseph Merrick, an Englishman who lived in the 19th century afflicted with Proteus syndrome. [...]
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