When it comes to dramatic health twists in movies, one mainstay is characters experiencing seizures. While many are not explained—and shown with few details—some films delve into the background of the condition, especially when related to epilepsy. Here are some notable films where artists are finding ways to demystify the disease and provide a closer look into the lives of people with epilepsy.
AVATAR: THE WAY OF WATER (2022)YouTube, Google Play, Amazon Prime
The sequel introduces new characters, including Kiri (Sigourney Weaver), a daughter of the Sully family, who experiences an underwater seizure. Afterwards, her epilepsy is discussed as a reason why she may have unique visual and emotional abilities. However, Kiri doesn’t actually display characteristics of frontal lobe epilepsy—her diagnosis—and her seizure and its significance is left unexplained.
CONTROL (2007)YouTube, Tubi, Pluto TV, The Roku Channel
The English rock biopic follows Joy Division’s singer Ian Curtis (Sam Riley), who lived with epilepsy. In one instance, the movie shows how Curtis had to be pulled off stage after experiencing a seizure. While Curtis seems to have no control over his epilepsy, the condition is not the main focal point of the film but rather part of the story of his life.
UNDER THE LIGHTS (2020)YouTube
This award-winning short film is a coming-of-age story of a boy living with epilepsy who wishes he felt like a regular kid. He goes to prom despite knowing that the bright lights may induce a seizure. Writer and director Miles Levin, who was diagnosed with epilepsy at age 4 and still deals with seizures, was inspired to make the film because he doesn’t want to ignore the conversation. A full-length feature is in the works.
GARDEN STATE (2004)HBO Max, Hulu, Amazon Prime, YouTube, Google Play, Redbox, Vudu, Apple TV
Sam (Natalie Portman), a quirky music lover and pathological liar, has a history of epilepsy. Though seizures are not depicted in the romantic comedy-drama, the condition is a subplot. While Sam has been seizure-free for years, she’s still dealing with her health insurance company and its demand that she wear a helmet to prevent injury from potential falls. Viewers follow Sam’s struggles with that demand while also navigating a growing relationship with Andrew, played by Zach Braff.
Bringing epilepsy to the silver screen can have a positive impact by providing insight into what it’s like to live with the condition—and how people both struggle and thrive on a daily basis. Viewers may walk away with a different perspective and even be inspired to get involved in the epilepsy community.
