Bulimia is a complex and often misunderstood eating disorder, and films that tackle this subject can provide both insight and empathy. This curated list of 10 drama films delves into the lives of characters battling bulimia, offering not just entertainment but also a deeper understanding of the psychological and emotional turmoil involved. These stories are poignant, thought-provoking, and can be a source of comfort or education for those affected by or interested in this condition.
Black Swan (2010)
Description: While not exclusively about bulimia, this psychological thriller includes themes of body image and eating disorders as part of the protagonist's descent into madness.
Fact: Natalie Portman underwent rigorous ballet training for the role, which included extreme dieting to portray the physical toll on her character.
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The Truth About Jane (2000)
Description: While primarily about a teenager coming out as gay, the film also touches on her struggle with bulimia, reflecting the pressures of adolescence and identity.
Fact: Ellen Muth, who played Jane, was praised for her sensitive portrayal of a multifaceted character.
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The Road Within (2014)
Description: This road trip comedy-drama features a character with Tourette syndrome, another with OCD, and one with bulimia, showcasing the challenges and bonds formed among them.
Fact: The film was originally a German production titled "Vincent Wants to Sea" before being remade in English.
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The Secret Life of Marilyn Monroe (2015)
Description: This miniseries explores the life of Marilyn Monroe, including her battles with mental health issues, including bulimia, offering a nuanced look at the icon's personal struggles.
Fact: Kelli Garner, who portrayed Monroe, underwent extensive preparation to capture the star's mannerisms and emotional depth.
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To the Bone (2017)
Description: This film follows Ellen, a young woman struggling with anorexia and bulimia, as she enters a group home for treatment. It's a raw and honest portrayal of eating disorders, focusing on the journey towards recovery.
Fact: Lily Collins, who plays Ellen, has openly discussed her own struggles with eating disorders, lending authenticity to her performance.
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Perfect Body (1997)
Description: A young gymnast, pressured by the expectations of her sport, develops bulimia. This TV movie explores the pressures of body image in competitive sports and the personal cost of such expectations.
Fact: The film was one of the first to address eating disorders in sports, sparking discussions on the subject.
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The Best Little Girl in the World (1981)
Description: This film, based on a novel by Steven Levenkron, tells the story of a teenage girl who becomes dangerously thin due to her eating disorder, highlighting the family dynamics and the path to recovery.
Fact: The film was groundbreaking for its time, offering one of the earliest cinematic looks at eating disorders.
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For the Love of Nancy (1994)
Description: Nancy, a high school student, spirals into bulimia after the pressures of fitting in and the loss of her father. The movie focuses on her family's struggle to understand and help her.
Fact: This film was part of a series of TV movies addressing social issues, aiming to educate and raise awareness.
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Feed (2005)
Description: This Australian thriller delves into the dark world of feederism, but also explores themes of bulimia and body image in a disturbing narrative.
Fact: The film was controversial for its graphic content, aiming to provoke thought on the extremes of body image issues.
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Hunger Point (2003)
Description: Based on a novel by Jillian Medoff, this film examines the family dynamics around eating disorders, focusing on a woman's recovery from bulimia.
Fact: Barbara Hershey, who plays the mother, delivers a compelling performance, highlighting the often overlooked role of family in eating disorders.
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