Two Films Receive Authentic Representation Award
Film and media are often perceived as reflections of reality which makes it important to recognize realistic representation on screen. The Ruderman Family Foundation’s Seal of Authentic Representation specifically acknowledges movies and television that feature performances of actors with disabilities. Two of the highest grossing films of 2021, A Quiet Place II and Godzilla vs. Kong have received that recognition. Click here to learn more about the performances by Millicent Simonds and Kaylee Holt, two Deaf actresses that portray Deaf characters in the films.
Television Review: Ramy
According to a recent study, “significant depictions of disability on film and television shows have nearly tripled over the past decade compared with the previous 10 years. Sixty-Five percent of depictions of disability came via films. Just 16% came from regular series, with the balance seen in TV movies, limited series or specials.” Ramy, an award-winning comedy-drama series on Hulu, is an exceptional example, with a realistic depiction of disability, played by an actor with a disability. Steve Way, the actor who plays Ramy’s friend Stevie, was born with muscular dystrophy and uses a wheelchair. The show focuses on the title character, Ramy, and his struggle to find himself and be true to his Muslim faith. Stevie as his best friend, is profane, staunchly realistic and an assertive advocate for himself. He alternately functions as Ramy’s conscience and leads him into temptation, resulting in scenes that are at times both hilarious and poignant. Stevie’s disability makes it necessary for him to depend on Ramy in a variety of – sometimes very personal – ways. The show depicts this in a completely natural fashion; there is no question that Stevie will be fully included in Ramy’s life and social circle. Click here to watch Ramy on Hulu.
Atypical Renewed for Final Season
The Netflix television series, Atypical has been renewed for a fourth and final season. The show tells the coming of age story of a young man named Sam who is on the autism spectrum. Although the actor who portrays Sam is not autistic himself, there are actors with Autism that have roles in the show. Anthony Jacques, who is on the spectrum, plays the role of Christopher and a number of characters in Sam’s support group are portrayed by people on the Autism spectrum. Click here to find out more about the addition of actors with autism to season two. Click here to learn more about the show’s upcoming final season.