10 Films About Coma Survivors That Inspire and Move

Description: This film tells the story of Helen Keller, who was left deaf and blind after an illness in infancy, and her teacher Anne Sullivan, who helps her break through her isolation. It's a powerful narrative of overcoming sensory deprivation.

Fact: Both Anne Bancroft and Patty Duke won Academy Awards for their performances.

Description: While not about a coma, the film explores the life of Joseph Merrick, who suffered from severe deformities, and his struggle for acceptance and dignity. It's a moving story of human compassion and the fight against societal prejudice.

Fact: The film was nominated for eight Academy Awards, including Best Picture.

Description: Based on the true story of Dr. Oliver Sacks, this film follows his work with catatonic patients who were given a new lease on life through an experimental drug. It's a touching tale of awakening from a metaphorical coma, exploring themes of hope and human connection.

Fact: Robin Williams and Robert De Niro both received Academy Award nominations for their performances.

Description: This Spanish film, which has an English dub, portrays the life of Ramón Sampedro, a quadriplegic who fights for the right to end his life after being paralyzed for 28 years. It's a profound look at the desire for autonomy and the complexities of living with severe disability.

Fact: Javier Bardem won the Best Actor at the Cannes Film Festival for his role as Ramón Sampedro.

Description: This film tells the true story of Jean-Dominique Bauby, editor of French Elle, who suffers a massive stroke and awakens from a 20-day coma with locked-in syndrome, able to communicate only by blinking his left eye. It's a poignant exploration of human resilience and the power of communication.

Fact: The film was shot in both France and the US, and the director Julian Schnabel won the Best Director award at the Cannes Film Festival.

Description: This film tells the true story of Jean-Dominique Bauby, editor of French Elle, who suffers a massive stroke and awakens from a 20-day coma with locked-in syndrome, able to communicate only by blinking his left eye. It's a poignant exploration of human resilience and the power of communication.

Fact: The film was shot in both France and the US, and the director Julian Schnabel won the Best Director award at the Cannes Film Festival.

Description: Although not about a coma, King George VI's struggle with a stammer can be seen as a metaphorical paralysis of speech, which he overcomes with the help of an unorthodox speech therapist. It's a story of personal growth and overcoming public speaking fears.

Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Picture.

Description: While not strictly about a coma, this film features Philippe, a wealthy aristocrat who becomes a quadriplegic after a paragliding accident. His relationship with his caregiver, Driss, is a heartwarming tale of friendship and overcoming adversity.

Fact: The film was a massive hit in France, becoming the second highest-grossing French film of all time.

Description: This biopic focuses on Stephen Hawking's life, particularly his relationship with his wife Jane, and his battle with motor neuron disease, which left him largely paralyzed. It's an inspiring story of love, science, and the human spirit.

Fact: Eddie Redmayne won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of Stephen Hawking.

Description: The film chronicles the life of Christy Brown, an Irishman born with cerebral palsy who could control only his left foot. His story is one of triumph over adversity, showcasing his artistic talent and determination.

Fact: Daniel Day-Lewis won his first Academy Award for Best Actor for this role.