Celebrating Diversity: Drama Films About Plus-Size Women

Description: Ana, a Mexican-American teenager, struggles with her family's expectations and her own dreams while working in a sewing factory. The film explores themes of body image, cultural identity, and empowerment.

Fact: America Ferrera made her film debut in this movie, which was based on a play by Josefina López. The film won the Audience Award at the Sundance Film Festival.

Description: Tracy Turnblad, a big-hearted, plus-size teenager, dreams of dancing on a local TV show. This musical comedy-drama celebrates diversity and challenges racial and body image prejudices.

Fact: The film is a remake of John Waters' 1988 film of the same name. It was nominated for two Academy Awards, including Best Picture.

Description: A reclusive English teacher with severe obesity tries to reconnect with his estranged teenage daughter for one last chance at redemption. This film delves into themes of isolation, grief, and the human condition.

Fact: The film is based on Samuel D. Hunter's play of the same name. Brendan Fraser's performance has been critically acclaimed.

Description: Bianca Piper, labeled as the "Designated Ugly Fat Friend," decides to take control of her life and redefine her identity. This film tackles themes of self-esteem and the superficiality of high school social hierarchies.

Fact: The term "DUFF" was coined for the movie, but it has since entered the vernacular. Mae Whitman, who plays Bianca, also sang the song "Outlaws" for the film's soundtrack.

Description: While not explicitly about plus-size women, this film features a protagonist who is not conventionally beautiful, exploring themes of love, acceptance, and the beauty found in difference.

Fact: The film won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and was directed by Guillermo del Toro.

Description: After a head injury, an ordinary woman suddenly believes she's the most beautiful and capable woman on the planet, leading to a comedic exploration of self-esteem and beauty standards.

Fact: The film was co-written by Abby Kohn and Marc Silverstein, who also directed it. It sparked discussions on body positivity and self-acceptance.

Description: Jazmin Biltmore, a plus-size fashion designer, navigates life, love, and self-acceptance in this comedy-drama. The film highlights the beauty of larger women and critiques societal expectations.

Fact: The film was directed by Nnegest Likké, who also wrote the screenplay. It was one of the first mainstream films to focus on plus-size women.

Description: This biographical drama delves into the life of Marilyn Monroe, highlighting her struggles with body image, mental health, and the pressures of fame, offering a nuanced look at her life beyond the glamour.

Fact: Kelli Garner, who played Marilyn, underwent extensive physical and vocal training to embody the iconic actress. The film was based on J. Randy Taraborrelli's book.

Description: A high school athlete dons a fat suit to experience life from the perspective of her overweight twin sister, learning valuable lessons about empathy and body image.

Fact: The film was inspired by real-life stories of people who used fat suits to understand the discrimination faced by overweight individuals.

Description: This heartwarming film follows Willowdean "Dumplin'" Dickson, a plus-size teenager who enters her mother's beauty pageant to make a statement about body positivity. It's a story of self-acceptance, friendship, and challenging societal norms.

Fact: The film is based on a novel by Julie Murphy. Jennifer Aniston, who plays Dumplin's mother, also served as a producer for the movie.