This curated list of films focuses on the theme of diabetes, showcasing stories that range from personal struggles and triumphs to educational narratives about living with this condition. These films provide not only entertainment but also a deeper understanding of the challenges and resilience associated with diabetes, making them valuable for both those directly affected and anyone interested in learning more about this widespread health issue.

Steel Magnolias (1989)
Description: This film features a character with Type 1 diabetes, highlighting the emotional and physical toll of the disease through her story of motherhood and personal sacrifice.
Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life story of playwright Robert Harling's sister, who passed away due to complications from diabetes.


The Doctor (1991)
Description: While not exclusively about diabetes, the film includes a subplot where the main character, a doctor, learns about the patient's perspective through his own health scare, which includes diabetes.
Fact: William Hurt, who plays the lead, was nominated for a Golden Globe for his performance in this film.


The Diving Bell and the Butterfly (2007)
Description: The film's protagonist, Jean-Dominique Bauby, suffers from locked-in syndrome, but his story also touches on his struggle with diabetes, showing the resilience of the human spirit.
Fact: The film was nominated for four Academy Awards, including Best Director.


Pan's Labyrinth (2006)
Description: Though not directly about diabetes, the film's protagonist, Ofelia, has a mother who is suffering from a mysterious illness, which many interpret as diabetes, showcasing the impact on family dynamics.
Fact: The film won three Academy Awards, including Best Cinematography.


The King's Speech (2010)
Description: King George VI, the film's subject, had diabetes, which is subtly referenced in the film, adding depth to his character's personal struggles.
Fact: The film won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture.


The Big Short (2015)
Description: This film includes a character, Mark Baum, who has diabetes, and his condition is subtly woven into the narrative, reflecting on how personal health can influence professional decisions.
Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay.


The Sessions (2012)
Description: This film explores the life of Mark O'Brien, a poet paralyzed from the neck down due to polio, who also manages diabetes, offering a nuanced look at living with multiple health challenges.
Fact: John Hawkes, who played Mark, was nominated for a Golden Globe for his performance.


The Fault in Our Stars (2014)
Description: While primarily about cancer, the film includes a subplot where the main character's mother has diabetes, showing the impact on family life and care.
Fact: The film was based on the best-selling novel by John Green.


The Theory of Everything (2014)
Description: This biopic on Stephen Hawking includes his struggle with motor neuron disease, but also his management of diabetes, illustrating his life's challenges beyond his scientific achievements.
Fact: Eddie Redmayne won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of Hawking.


The Fundamentals of Caring (2016)
Description: While focusing on muscular dystrophy, the film also touches on the protagonist's journey with diabetes, offering a broader perspective on caregiving and personal growth.
Fact: The film is based on the novel "The Revised Fundamentals of Caregiving" by Jonathan Evison.
