[Deficiency, disability, neurology and cinema].

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Medical Humanities
• Film Studies

Background:

• Cinema has historically explored health and sickness, including medical practice, patient experiences, and bioethical issues.
• Films often blend fantasy with reality, providing a lens to view societal perceptions of illness.
• Early cinema demonstrated an interest in health-related topics, setting a precedent for future portrayals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and analyze the depiction of neurological pathologies in cinema.
• To examine the portrayal of medical practices, physician-patient relationships, and patient/family experiences in films.
• To assess the representation of social/occupational adaptation and the role of healthcare professionals in neurological patient narratives.

Main Methods:

• Review of significant films addressing neurological disorders.
• Qualitative analysis of cinematic representations of illness and healthcare.
• Comparison of the accuracy and fictional elements in film portrayals.

Main Results:

• Neurological disorders are frequently depicted in cinema, with varying degrees of medical accuracy.
• Films showcase diverse aspects of the neurological patient journey, from diagnosis to social integration.
• Cinematic portrayals influence public perception of neurological conditions and healthcare professionals.

Conclusions:

• Cinema serves as a powerful medium for shaping public understanding of neurological conditions and healthcare.
• Film analysis provides a unique perspective on the history and evolution of medical practice and patient care.
• Cinematic representations highlight the importance of family support and social roles for individuals with neurological disorders.