Netflix has recently released a new collection titled “Celebrating Disability with Dimension” which showcases a range of movies and TV shows that feature people who live with a disability. This collection aims to raise awareness and promote inclusivity by breaking down stereotypes and showcasing the diversity of experiences of people with a disability
We’ve chosen our top five recommendations from this collection ranging from comedy to documentary to reality television. So, sit back and enjoy!
The Peanut Butter Falcon (2019)
This 2019 film follows Zak, a young man with Down syndrome, as he escapes a state-run care facility to follow his dreams to become a professional wrestler. While on the run, Zak befriends a wayward fisherman, and together they embark on a journey to a wrestling school in North Carolina with a social worker on their heels. Receiving rave reviews from critics, this comedy is a heart-warming adventure about creating your own family and personal growth.
Rising Phoenix (2020)
Rising Phoenix is a 2020 documentary that tells the history of the Paralympic Games and interviews past and present Paralympic champions. The documentary explores the challenges each athlete has faced on their journey to the world stage, and how the Paralympic games have given them the opportunity to showcase their skills and drive.
Crip Camp: A Disability Revolution (2020)
2020 documentary, “Crip Camp” tells the story of a Summer camp for teenagers who have a disability. The documentary fed directly into the American disability rights movement of the 1970s and is told from the perspective of former campers at Camp Jened who explain how their time there helped them escape their day-to-day lives and be seen beyond their respective disabilities.
Love on The Spectrum: Australia (2019-2021)
“Love on the Spectrum” is a heart-warming and informative documentary series that follows a group of young Australians with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) as they navigate the complex world of dating and relationships. The show provides an honest and compassionate look at the challenges and joys that come with dating with ASD, while also addressing misconceptions and stereotypes about the condition. The series has been praised for its positive portrayal of individuals with ASD and for its ability to promote greater understanding and acceptance of neurodiversity in society. There are currently two seasons on the Netflix website.
True Spirit (2023)
Based on the true story of Australian teenager Jessica Watson on her journey to be the youngest person to sail non-stop around the world. The film focuses on the determination of Jessica to achieve the impossible in her navigation of the world’s most challenging stretches of the ocean all before her 17th birthday. This inspiring film encourages young people to go after their dreams- no matter what anyone else thinks.
Other Platforms
If you don’t have a Netflix, platforms such as ABC iView and SBS on-demand host free content with a focus on disability. ABC iView’s collection, Celebrating Australians with Disability is filled with a fantastic range of short films, television shows, documentaries, and movies. We recommend, You cant ask that, Better date than never and Kurt Fearnley’s One Plus One.
There are our top picks. Why not cosy up and watch one or two this week?
