Lost in Transmission is a well-crafted and moving film that highlights a man's struggle with schizophrenia. It features the importance of friendship, love and support at a difficult time and is brilliantly acted, led by the talented Simon Pegg. There are many films that tackle the tough subject of mental health in a way that is honest, moving and sensitive, here are just some examples.
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The Soloist
- 2009 Movie
- 3.7/5
‘The soloist’ is a touching film based on the true story of talented musician Nathaniel Ayers who became homeless after developing Schizophrenia. With an all-star cast led by Jamie Foxx and Robert Downey Jr. this movie is one that should not be missed. When journalist, Steve Lopez, discovers Nathaniel on the street and recognises his talent he decides to write a series of articles about him and his incredible story. As Lopez and Nathaniel begin a friendship, Lopez tries to help improve Nathaniel’s situation and help to improve the lives of the homeless people throughout LA. Facing setback and struggles related to Nathaniel’s schizophrenia, Lopez and Nathaniel work to help each other create a brighter future. Expertly portrayed by Robert Downey Jr. and Jamie Foxx this is a touching movie about the beauty of helping each other.
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Goodbye Christopher Robin
- 2017 Movie
- 4/5
This remarkable film follows the true story behind the much loved and acclaimed Winnie the Pooh series written by A.A Milne. At its heart, this is a story about family and how despite how successful you are, what you will truly find joy in is your family. Returning from the First World War, writer Alan Milne finds himself suffering from severe PTSD. After withdrawing himself from his family, he finds himself unexpectedly in sole charge of his young son, Robin, during this time he finds peace in bonding with his son, inspiring the Winnie the Pooh series. As fame creates complications in family life between father and son, their relationship becomes further strained with World War Two on the horizon. This is a poignant and moving film that delves into the importance of family and helping one another, exploring the effects of PTSD and the devastating consequences of war in a way that is non-judgemental, honest and sensitive.
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I Am Sam
- 2001 Movie
- 4.2/5
Starring Sean Penn, ‘I am Sam’ is a well-crafted film that explores the topic of what it takes to care for a child. Sam, an autistic man, is the sole carer his seven year old daughter, Lucy. As Lucy’s intelligence and social abilities start to advance beyond that of Sam’s, she is taken by the state, sparking a custody battle as Sam tries to keep custody of Lucy. This is a moving and at times heartbreaking movie that at its core is about the love between a parent and their child. It raises difficult to answer questions about whether a child is best cared for by a loving parent with a mental or intellectual disability, and whether love or ability is the most important element in raising a child. This is a beautiful and emotional film that is well worth a watch.
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Joker
- 2019 Movie
- 3.9/5
Released in 2019 and starring the immensely talented Joaquin Phoenix, this movie offers a unique perspective on the iconic DC character of the Joker. Disregarded, mistreated and overlooked, failing comedian Arthur Fleck struggles with his inner demons and mental health issues in this origin story of one of the most recognisable comic book villains. As he embarks on the journey from a downtrodden and troubled man to a life of violent crime, this movie offers a unique look at how a person can get trapped in a dangerous downward spiral. At times confronting, this emotional and gritty movie is one that shines a new light on a character that has always been painted as a villain and highlights the idea that there is a story behind everyone.
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Infinitely Polar Bear
- 2014 Movie
- 4/5
‘Infinitely Polar Bear’ is a 2015 comedy drama starring Mark Ruffalo and Zoe Saldana. To try and win back his family, Cam played by Mark Ruffalo, takes on sole responsibility for caring for his two young daughters. Suffering from bi-polar disorder, Cam must try to navigate how to look after two young children while finding ways to also cope with his disorder. At times, a very moving story, this film is cleverly sprinkled with comedy. ‘Infinitely Polar Bear’ is expertly acted and directed to make a well balanced, real and quality movie that tackles a tough issue in a thoughtful and well-crafted way.
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Thank You For Your Service
- 2017 Movie
- 3.5/5
‘Thank You for Your Service’ is a 2017 war drama starring Miles Teller and based on the non-fiction book of the same name. It explores the themes of PTSD and the immense mental tole that war can have on someone that has seen it first-hand. After a fifteen-month tour in Iraq, well decorated soldier, Adam, returns home to his loving family. He finds adjusting to civilian life challenging and struggles with severe PTSD from his time at war. The film is at times very confronting and portrays the struggles that servicemen and women can face even after they have returned home in a raw and honest way. It shows the struggles and triumphs of Adam as he battles PTSD and is a story of acceptance, loss, courage and love during some of the most challenging times.
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Clean, Shaven
- 1993 Movie
- 3.8/5
‘Clean, Shaven’ gives and honest and raw portrayal of life for those struggling with Schizophrenia. Recently released from an institution, Peter searches for ways to adjust and survive in the world while suffering from schizophrenia. All the while, searching for his daughter who has been adopted by another family while he was in the institution. This incredible movie can be at times hard to watch but is one that will stay with you. A story of the struggles of living with schizophrenia, this film also shows the undying love of a parent and the courage of trying to overcome inner demons. At times, a heartbreaking and deeply moving film, it is one that is worth a watch.
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Still Alice
- 2014 Movie
- 4.2/5
The 2014 drama ‘Still Alice’ is a poignant and compelling movie that tackles the difficult subject of early onset Alzheimer’s. ‘Still Alice’ follows the story of Alice, a linguist, who when she begins forgetting words discovers the heartbreaking truth that she has early onset Alzheimer’s disease. As Alice and her family try to navigate the world they now must face, knowing that there is no cure for Alice’s condition, they try to realise and enjoy what is important in life and make the most of the time they still have. This is an incredibly moving film that touches on some very raw subjects and does not shy away from the difficult reality that many people living with Alzheimer’s or caring for someone with Alzheimer’s must face. Presented in a way that is both real and delicate make sure you have your tissue box ready when watching this incredible movie.
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Split
- 2016 Movie
- 3.9/5
Created by legendary director M. Night Shyamalan, this suspenseful movie is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat. Kevin, a man suffering from dissociative personality disorder and exhibiting twenty-three separate personalities, abducts three teenagers. The teenagers are locked in a race to survive as they try to escape. Befriending and reasoning with Kevin’s various personalities, they learn that they must escape their kidnapper before his twenty fourth personality is let out to dominate all the others. James McAvoy completes a stunning performance in ‘Split’, portraying Kevin and his many distinct personalities. A movie not for the faint of heart this heart pounding, edge of your seat thriller/horror is one that is sure to capture your attention.
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A Beautiful Mind
- 2001 Movie
- 4.5/5
Starring Russell Crowe, this well-known movie is based on the life of Dr. James Nash. A brilliant mathematician, James Nash reached fame and notoriety for his incredible mathematical work and discoveries early in his career. However, struggling with schizophrenia Dr. Nash would find himself on a far more challenging path of self-discovery. As Dr. Nash eventually went on to win the Nobel Prize, this amazing true story tells of heartbreak, love, struggle, and triumph. Flawlessly acted by Russell Crowe and directed by Ron Howard, ‘A Beautiful Mind’ is an incredible film that is sure to stay with you for some time to come.
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