As someone who has lived with cerebral palsy for the majority of my life, I can confidently say that Disney+’s “Out Of My Mind” is a breath of fresh air in the world of disability representation on screen. Unlike many other films that promise a happily ever after ending, this movie doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of living with a disability.
It’s not difficult to discover movies that focus on disability if you take the time to search. Some are works of fiction while others are based on real events, but they often share similarities when depicted on screen. The appeal of these films lies in their portrayal of overcoming adversity, and disability offers a natural obstacle for characters to confront. In many aspects, the film “ Out Of My Mind” currently streaming with a Disney+ subscription, follows the traditional narrative around disability. However, there are several unique aspects that set it apart, making it a refreshing change.
Since I share the condition of the main character from the movie “Out of My Mind,” I anticipated it would resonate on a personal level for me. Yet, I didn’t foresee how accurately the narrative reflects an aspect of life with a disability that very few other movies manage to portray so authentically.
Disney+’s Out Of My Mind Makes Disability Real Through Casting
Out of My Mind
The specifics of how Melody developed cerebral palsy or acquired it aren’t explained in this narrative, as they don’t impact the storyline we’re following. Melody uses a wheelchair and cannot speak. Most of the story is narrated by Melody’s thoughts, which are voiced by Jennifer Aniston. In an amusing nod to reality, it’s mentioned that Melody has chosen to have Aniston’s voice heard because, being non-verbal, she can express herself however she wants and prefers the voice of the Friends actress.
Taylor’s performance serves to convincingly portray a disability, thereby providing an authentic glimpse into her condition.
Out Of My Mind’s Plot Feels Trite And Traditional At The Beginning
For her entire life, Melody has attended special education classrooms. Yet, an enthusiastic graduate student enabled her to integrate into a regular classroom setting for the first time. The story Out of My Mind chronicles her journey as she navigates through a typical public school environment, making efforts to build friendships and engage in activities that other children undertake, despite her unique circumstances.
Melody struggles, nonetheless, she’s undeniably one of the most intelligent students in her entire history class. She grasps all the answers quickly, yet finds it hard to express them in a manner others can follow. In an effort to demonstrate her abilities, Melody auditions for the school’s Whiz Kids team. Facing teachers’ prejudices is tough for her, but she manages to secure a spot on the team. The novel “Out of My Mind” presents a moment that you might anticipate in a film like this, but it delivers it in a way that surpasses your expectations.
Out Of My Mind Has A “Disney” Moment That Doesn’t Go The Way You Think
In a mix of backing and skepticism, Melody and her fellow students embark on the state-level Whiz Kids tournament. Their school manages to advance to the final round, ending regular competition tied with another team. This necessitates an intense tiebreaker round, where one representative from each team is selected to compete. Although not everyone on Melody’s squad is enthusiastic about her selection, some recognize her as the most intelligent in the group and she’s eventually chosen. It’s unlikely to be a significant spoiler, but Melody triumphantly secures the victory for her school, earning them a place at the National Championship.
In most films, this moment would signify the end, with Melody triumphing in the school competition, the skeptics being disproven, and those who doubted her talents now cheering her on. However, this isn’t just any film – it’s a Disney+ movie, premiering on Disney+ for Thanksgiving. The kind of ending you might anticipate from these movies is exactly what we have here.
Yet, the film deviates from the usual pattern. Once Melody emerges victorious in the competition and demonstrates her talents, the storyline does not conclude there. Instead, you are invited to witness what unfolds afterwards, and this unexpected turn of events is…
…nothing changes.
The children who were habitual bullies continue to behave as bullies.
But when the team is preparing to jet off to the National Championship in Washington D.C., Melody seems to be overlooked or even intentionally left behind. She believes she’s found a sense of worth through this experience, yet it appears that she’s proven that the “disabled student” is more intelligent than everyone else, which may actually make her peers less inclined to accept her.
Out Of My Mind Skips The Happily Ever After That Never Happens With Disability
Disability is a constant companion throughout life, such as cerebral palsy. No matter what steps you take or accomplishments you make, people’s perceptions and attitudes may not change easily. It can be challenging to get others to understand or empathize, and they might not see their prejudices as wrong.
Apart from sharing the condition of cerebral palsy, Melody and I differ greatly. I possess the ability to communicate verbally, and while my gait might seem unusual, I am capable of walking. A significant part of the time, I can blend in with those without physical disabilities.
In my school days, I was among the more intellectually gifted students. This understanding of overcoming stereotypes based on ability stems from me. However, I’ve found that trying to prove one’s worth through intelligence often falls short. When someone chooses to dehumanize you due to your disability, it becomes an unyielding fact that no action can reverse. The prejudice and intolerance faced by those with disabilities is a constant struggle that must be endured day by day. While some days may be more manageable than others, this burden seldom fully disappears.
Despite its title, “Out of My Mind” maintains a positive resolution. By the end of the film, Melody’s situation has significantly improved compared to the start. However, the narrative doesn’t sugarcoat the fact that her life moving forward won’t be flawless. It’s evident that Melody’s challenges persist beyond this point.
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2024-12-05 02:07