If you loved the gripping survival drama 'Alive and Kicking' (2017), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 similarly intense movies and shows that capture the same spirit of resilience, human struggle, and emotional depth. Whether you're drawn to true-life survival stories or fictional tales of endurance, these picks will keep you on the edge of your seat.
The Diving Bell and the Butterfly (2007)
Description: A biographical drama about a man with locked-in syndrome who learns to communicate through blinking, showcasing the resilience of the human spirit and the power of creativity.
Fact: The film is based on the memoir by Jean-Dominique Bauby, who dictated the book by blinking his left eyelid.
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Inside I'm Dancing (2004)
Description: A comedy-drama about two young men with disabilities who move into a shared apartment and challenge societal expectations, celebrating independence and friendship.
Fact: The film was originally titled 'Rory O'Shea Was Here' in some markets and was praised for its authentic casting of actors with disabilities.
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The Intouchables (2011)
Description: This film explores the deep and transformative friendship between a wealthy quadriplegic man and his caregiver, highlighting themes of resilience, humor, and the human spirit.
Fact: It became the second most-watched French film in history and was remade in multiple countries, including the U.S. as 'The Upside'.
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The Sessions (2012)
Description: This movie tells the story of a man with polio who seeks to lose his virginity with the help of a sex therapist, addressing themes of intimacy, disability, and self-acceptance.
Fact: The film is based on the true story of journalist and poet Mark O'Brien, who wrote about his experiences in an article titled 'On Seeing a Sex Surrogate'.
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Rust and Bone (2012)
Description: This drama follows the relationship between a killer whale trainer who loses her legs and a struggling single father, exploring themes of physical and emotional recovery.
Fact: Marion Cotillard performed many of her own stunts, including scenes in the water with the orca, despite her fear of large marine animals.
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The Fault in Our Stars (2014)
Description: A romantic drama about two teenagers with cancer who fall in love, exploring themes of mortality, love, and the search for meaning in life.
Fact: The film's title is inspired by a line from Shakespeare's 'Julius Caesar,' and it became a cultural phenomenon upon its release.
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Me Before You (2016)
Description: A romantic drama that follows the relationship between a young caregiver and a wealthy man paralyzed in an accident, exploring themes of love, choice, and quality of life.
Fact: The film sparked controversy and discussions about its portrayal of assisted suicide and disability rights.
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The Theory of Everything (2014)
Description: A biographical drama that delves into the life of a brilliant physicist dealing with a debilitating illness, focusing on love, perseverance, and the power of the human mind.
Fact: The film is based on the memoir by Jane Hawking, the ex-wife of Stephen Hawking, and won Eddie Redmayne an Oscar for his portrayal of Hawking.
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Still Alice (2014)
Description: A poignant story about a linguistics professor diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's, focusing on her struggle to maintain her identity and relationships as the disease progresses.
Fact: Julianne Moore won an Oscar for her performance, and the film was praised for its accurate portrayal of Alzheimer's disease.
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Gleason (2016)
Description: A documentary that follows former NFL player Steve Gleason as he lives with ALS, capturing his journey, family life, and advocacy work.
Fact: The film was shot over five years and includes footage from Gleason's own video diaries, providing an intimate look at his life with the disease.
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