These three films accurately depict complex mental health conditions. Understanding the human mind can be challenging, especially when it comes to mental disorders. Unfortunately, Hollywood often struggles with this, leading to movies that misrepresent these conditions. Too often, these portrayals are simplified, leaving viewers with a distorted view of what these disorders are truly like.
However, there are notable exceptions. These three films have been widely praised for their accurate and detailed portrayals of psychological concepts. Their commitment to depicting these conditions authentically has earned critical acclaim from mental health professionals, offering a genuine glimpse into some of the most commonly misunderstood mental health issues.
1. Black Swan (2010)
Some viewers have criticized *Black Swan* for inaccurately depicting schizophrenia. However, this critique is based on a misunderstanding. According to Dr. Steve Lamberti, a psychiatry professor at the University of Rochester Medical Center, the film doesn't portray schizophrenia but provides a realistic depiction of psychosis.
Psychosis is a frequently misunderstood condition. Many people don't realize that it's usually a sign of bigger mental health problems, not a disorder on its own. A 2013 study describes psychosis as a loss of contact with reality, manifesting through hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking. Contrary to popular belief, psychosis doesn't necessarily involve violent or bizarre behavior; it signifies a deeply distressing break from reality that can profoundly impact an individual's life.
Natalie Portman's portrayal of Nina Sayers in 'Black Swan' is a brilliant representation of what psychosis looks like. Her character's gradual loss of touch with reality is depicted in a way that highlights how disturbing and confusing this condition can be for those experiencing it. Viewers struggle to distinguish between reality and delusion until it's too late, mirroring Nina's own experience. This narrative device effectively conveys the turmoil and confusion inherent in psychosis, making *Black Swan* a powerful film that captures the essence of this often misunderstood condition.
2. The Aviator (2005)
Many people reduce obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) to being a "neat freak" or a "perfectionist." However, in reality, this disorder is far more consuming and painful than merely being meticulous about cleanliness, and 'The Aviator' makes this very clear. In a 2012 analysis, Dr. Anne Chosak from Massachusetts General Hospital's Center for OCD said, "The Aviator gives a realistic and sensitive portrayal of one man's ongoing battle with OCD."
A 2013 study describes OCD as involving distressing obsessions and, consequently, debilitating compulsions that lead to significant disruptions in daily life:
- Obsessions are unwanted and intrusive thoughts, images, or urges that lead to significant anxiety.
- Compulsions are repetitive actions or mental tasks done to ease the anxiety from these obsessions.
OCD manifests in various forms, such as obsessive and compulsive behaviors regarding harm, symmetry, hoarding, and even intrusive aggressive or sexual thoughts. One form is contamination OCD, which is not as simple as handwashing and sanitizing. Instead, it's an overwhelming fear of germs and contamination.
Leonardo DiCaprio's portrayal of Howard Hughes in *The Aviator* is an excellent representation of how debilitating contamination OCD can be, despite sufferers' awareness of the irrationality of their thoughts. Viewers may be put off or confused by the lengths Howard goes to satisfy his cleanliness and perfection desires, but this only captures a fraction of the distress that OCD sufferers experience throughout their lives. The film illustrates the immense struggle and relentless nature of OCD, providing a window into the reality of living with this often misunderstood disorder.
3. Uncut Gems (2019)
Many people struggle to understand addiction. They witness the progressive destruction of individuals' lives due to their addiction and wonder why they choose to continue this "lifestyle." However, people fail to recognize that this "lifestyle" is not a choice; it is the result of a genuine disorder. *Uncut Gems* gets this spot on. A 2020 article from Cambridge Health Alliance states that accurate media portrayal of Gambling Disorder is crucial, and the 2019 movie Uncut Gems does this effectively."
A July 2019 research study from Nature Reviews Disease Primers describes gambling addiction as more than occasional betting or a bad habit; it's an all-encompassing and consuming compulsion that takes over an individual's life. Unlike the common misconception that gambling addiction is just about chasing thrills or being reckless with money, it is characterized by an uncontrollable urge to keep gambling despite severe negative consequences. This condition creates a harmful pattern of extreme ups and downs, with bursts of happiness followed by intense sadness. People often make risky bets to try to recover their losses or feel a brief sense of success.
Adam Sandler's portrayal of Howard Ratner in 'Uncut Gems' captures the tumultuous nature of gambling addiction with remarkable authenticity. Ratner's life is a chaotic mix of high-stakes bets, desperate plans, and moments of intense panic as he manages debts, relationships, and his relentless urge to gamble. Sandler's performance vividly illustrates the consuming and oscillating nature of the disorder, showing how the addiction controls and distorts every aspect of the sufferer's life. The film leaves viewers unsettled, yet drawn into Ratner's relentless pursuit of the next big win, a testament to *Uncut Gems'* powerful and accurate depiction of the devastating impact of gambling addiction.