The representation of imaging modalities in film

This study attempts to review the depiction of imaging modalities in feature length films, including documentaries.

The IMDb website was searched for feature films containing keywords related to multiple radiology modalities (including mammography, CT, MRI, radiography, fluoroscopy, angiography, and ultrasound) used in the "plot" summary and the use of imaging was reviewed as it related to the film or its plot. Common themes were identified and presented.

A total of 67 titles were retrieved, which after removal of duplicate entries and irrelevant entries resulted in 51 individual titles. Common themes that may have a negative connotation included imaging portrayed as harmful (17.6%) or revealing a harmful process (23.5%). A harmful finding (unfavorable diagnosis or supernatural process) is demonstrated more often than normal findings on imaging, 12 out of 13 times (92.3%). Anti-mammography documentaries accounted for 4 out of 6 movies about mammography (66.7%). MRI is frequently depicted as a technological marvel and, along with CT,as a source of discovery, although often the target of science-fiction and science-fiction-adjacent depictions as a harmful technology. Ultrasound is commonly used as a symbol representing pregnancy and future or current children.

Recognizing how imaging modalities are depicted in film may help identify targets to address in health marketing campaigns and how to rectify certain attitudes and beliefs regarding imaging.