Bulimia is a complex and often misunderstood eating disorder, and cinema has been a medium to explore its emotional and psychological impacts. This curated list of 10 melodramas delves into the lives of characters battling bulimia, offering not just entertainment but also a deeper understanding of the condition. These films provide a window into the struggles, the recovery, and the human spirit's resilience, making them valuable for anyone interested in or affected by eating disorders.
The Road Within (2014)
Description: While not exclusively about bulimia, this film includes a character with the disorder, showcasing the journey of three individuals with different mental health issues.
Fact: The film was originally a German movie called "Vincent Wants to Sea." It was remade in English with Robert Sheehan in the lead role.
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Starving in Suburbia (2014)
Description: A teenage girl turns to bulimia and anorexia to fit in, exploring the dark side of social media and peer pressure.
Fact: The film was inspired by real-life stories of teens affected by pro-anorexia websites. It was released directly to video.
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The Secret Life of Marilyn Monroe (2015)
Description: This miniseries delves into Marilyn Monroe's life, including her battles with bulimia and other personal issues.
Fact: Kelli Garner, who plays Monroe, underwent a transformation to capture the star's look and mannerisms. The series was based on J. Randy Taraborrelli's biography.
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The Karen Carpenter Story (1989)
Description: This TV movie chronicles the life of Karen Carpenter, focusing on her battle with anorexia and bulimia, leading to her untimely death.
Fact: Cynthia Gibb, who played Karen, had to learn to sing like her. The film was controversial for its portrayal of Carpenter's family dynamics.
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To the Bone (2017)
Description: Ellen, a young woman with anorexia, is sent to a group home where she meets others with similar struggles, including those with bulimia. This film provides a raw look at the complexities of eating disorders.
Fact: Lily Collins, who plays Ellen, lost weight for the role to portray the character's condition accurately. The film was also inspired by writer-director Marti Noxon's own experiences with an eating disorder.
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The Best Little Girl in the World (1981)
Description: This TV movie follows a teenage girl who develops an eating disorder, including bulimic episodes, as she tries to cope with the pressures of adolescence and perfectionism.
Fact: The film was based on a novel by Steven Levenkron, who is a psychotherapist specializing in eating disorders. It was one of the earliest depictions of eating disorders on television.
30 Days Free Perfect Body (1997)
Description: A gymnast's obsession with her weight leads to bulimia, exploring the pressures of competitive sports and body image issues.
Fact: The film stars Amy Jo Johnson, known for her role in "Mighty Morphin Power Rangers." It was one of the first films to address the issue of eating disorders in the context of sports.
30 Days Free For the Love of Nancy (1994)
Description: Nancy's struggle with bulimia is portrayed as she tries to meet the unrealistic standards set by her mother and society.
Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life story of Nancy Kerrigan, though it's not a direct biopic. Tracey Gold, who plays Nancy, had her own struggles with anorexia.
30 Days Free A Secret Between Friends: A Moment of Truth Movie (1996)
Description: Two friends face the consequences of bulimia, highlighting the importance of support and understanding in recovery.
Fact: This film is part of the "Moment of Truth" series, which often dealt with social issues. It was one of the first to show the impact of eating disorders on friendships.
30 Days Free Thin (2006)
Description: This documentary follows four women, including one with bulimia, at a treatment facility for eating disorders, offering an unfiltered look at recovery.
Fact: The film was directed by Lauren Greenfield, who spent months at the treatment center. It was critically acclaimed for its honest portrayal of eating disorders.
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