“The Elephant Man”, 1980
Director: David Lynch
Based on a true story, this film tells the story of John Merrick, a man with severe physical deformities who is rescued from a life of exploitation and abuse by a compassionate doctor. Despite his appearance, Merrick longs for acceptance and a sense of belonging in a society that shuns him for being different.
Starring: Anthony Hopkins, John Hurt, Anne Bancroft, John Gielgud, Wendy Hiller, Freddie Jones, Michael Elphick, Hannah Gordon, Helen Ryan, John Standing;
Production year: 1980;
Genre: drama, biography;
MPAA rating: pg;
Duration: 125 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 8,2;
More information about the film “The Elephant Man” on the website imdb.com
“The Perks of Being a Wallflower”, 2012
Director: Stephen Chbosky
Adapted from the novel of the same name, this coming-of-age film follows the story of Charlie, a high school freshman who struggles with mental health issues and feelings of isolation. Through his friendships with a group of misfit classmates, Charlie learns to embrace his uniqueness and find his place in the world.
Starring: Logan Lerman, Emma Watson, Ezra Miller, Nina Dobrev, Dylan McDermott, Kate Walsh, Paul Rudd, Mae Whitman, Adam Hagenbuch, Johnny Simmons;
Production year: 2012;
Genre: drama;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 102 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,9;
More information about the film “The Perks of Being a Wallflower” on the website imdb.com
“Little Miss Sunshine”, 2006
Director: Jonathan Dayton, Valerie Faris
This comedy-drama film follows the dysfunctional Hoover family as they embark on a road trip to support their daughter Olive in a beauty pageant. Each family member grapples with their own insecurities and struggles with fitting in, ultimately learning to embrace their quirks and differences as strengths.
Starring: Abigail Breslin, Greg Kinnear, Toni Collette, Paul Dano, Steve Carell, Alan Arkin, Bryan Cranston, Dean Norris, Julio Oscar Mechoso, Marc Turtletaub;
Production year: 2006;
Genre: drama, comedy;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 101 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,8;
More information about the film “Little Miss Sunshine” on the website imdb.com
“The Shape of Water”, 2017
Director: Guillermo del Toro
Directed by Guillermo del Toro, this fantasy romance film tells the story of Elisa, a mute woman who forms a deep connection with a mysterious amphibious creature being held captive in a government facility. Their bond transcends their differences and challenges societal norms, highlighting the beauty of acceptance and love in all its forms.
Starring: Sally Hawkins, Michael Shannon, Richard Jenkins, Octavia Spencer, Michael Stuhlbarg, Doug Jones, David Hewlett, Nick Searcy, Stewart Arnott, Nigel Bennett;
Production year: 2017;
Genre: science fiction, drama;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 123 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,3;
More information about the film “The Shape of Water” on the website imdb.com
In conclusion, the selection of films about being different offers a powerful and diverse representation of individuals navigating the complexities of identity, acceptance, and self-discovery. From heartwarming stories of love and triumph to poignant explorations of societal norms and prejudices, these films challenge audiences to embrace diversity, celebrate uniqueness, and ultimately, recognize the beauty in what sets us apart. Through compelling narratives and nuanced performances, these films remind us that being different is not just a source of conflict, but also a source of strength, resilience, and ultimately, a beacon of hope for a more inclusive and accepting world.
