.jpg)
Bipolar disorder, a mental health condition marked by extreme mood swings that include emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression), is often misrepresented in popular media. Due to the complexity of the condition, many films and TV shows tend to focus on the extremes of mania and depression, overlooking the subtler symptoms and the gray areas in between. However, there are several instances where filmmakers and showrunners have succeeded in portraying this condition with accuracy, nuance, and sensitivity. Below are some standout examples of movies and TV shows that get it right when it comes to depicting bipolar disorder.
Movies and TV Shows That Accurately Portray Bipolar Disorder
Manic
Manic is a powerful film set in a psychiatric hospital that examines the experiences of troubled teenagers. One of the key characters, Chad, played by Michael Bacall, struggles with bipolar disorder. The film accurately portrays the impulsive and unpredictable nature of the disorder, with Chad’s character showing signs of both manic and depressive episodes. In one particular scene, Chad has a heated argument over a Vincent van Gogh painting, which he describes as a metaphor for his own feelings of confinement and despair.
The movie’s depiction of Chad's condition is also layered with elements of agoraphobia, making it a complex and realistic portrayal of how multiple mental health disorders can overlap. *Manic* doesn’t offer any easy solutions but instead focuses on the daily struggles and internal battles faced by those living with bipolar disorder.
Euphoria
.jpg)
HBO’s Euphoria is known for its raw and unflinching portrayal of mental illness, and its depiction of bipolar disorder through the character Rue, played by Zendaya, is no exception. Rue’s internal monologue throughout the series gives viewers a rare insight into her mind, showing how her thoughts race and how her moods shift between manic energy and depressive lows. Rather than portraying bipolar disorder as a series of dramatic outbursts, *Euphoria* emphasizes the quieter, more internal struggles Rue faces.
Also Read: 7 Animated Movies That Focus On Processing Mental Health
The series also touches on how substance abuse can be a coping mechanism for individuals who are undiagnosed or untreated. Rue’s drug use adds another layer of complexity to her condition, illustrating the dangerous ways in which people with bipolar disorder may attempt to manage their symptoms without proper treatment.
Silver Linings Playbook
View this post on Instagram
Silver Linings Playbook offers a nuanced depiction of bipolar disorder through the character Pat, played by Bradley Cooper. The film explores not only Pat’s internal turmoil but also the impact his condition has on his family and relationships. Pat’s erratic mood swings, short bursts of anger, and manic episodes are all portrayed with authenticity, and the film highlights how external stressors, such as his failed marriage, exacerbate his mental health issues.
Also Read: 7 Movies That Portrayed Disability With Immense Sensitivity
What makes Silver Linings Playbook stand out is its emphasis on family support. As Pat’s parents and friends begin to understand his condition better, they learn how to provide him with the care and tough love he needs. The film ultimately portrays bipolar disorder not as an insurmountable obstacle, but as a condition that can be managed with the right support system.
Shameless
View this post on Instagram
Showtime’s Shameless offers one of the most comprehensive portrayals of bipolar disorder through the character Ian Gallagher. Initially, Ian is in denial about his condition, despite clear signs of mania and depression. Throughout the early seasons, we see Ian engaging in risky behaviors, such as staying up all night and using substances to manage his mood swings. His refusal to seek help reflects the real-life stigma many people with bipolar disorder face.
As the series progresses, Ian begins to come to terms with his diagnosis and takes steps to manage his mental health, including taking medication. Shameless excels in showing the complexities of living with bipolar disorder and how acceptance and treatment can lead to a better quality of life.
Homeland
View this post on Instagram
In the thrilling drama Homeland, Claire Danes plays Carrie Mathison, a brilliant CIA agent who lives with bipolar disorder. The show not only explores Carrie’s high-stress job but also how her mental illness impacts her work and personal life. Carrie’s impulsive decisions, intense focus, and bursts of creativity are often portrayed as assets in her career. However, the show does not shy away from the toll her disorder takes on her mental and physical health.
The stress of working in intelligence, combined with her condition, makes it increasingly difficult for Carrie to maintain stability. Homeland offers a realistic portrayal of how individuals with bipolar disorder can excel in high-pressure environments while also grappling with the challenges their illness presents.
Infinitely Polar Bear
Based on the real-life experiences of writer and director Maya Forbes, Infinitely Polar Bear tells the story of a father, played by Mark Ruffalo, who has bipolar disorder. Set in the 1970s, the film focuses on how his condition affects his relationship with his daughters while his wife is away attending graduate school.
During his manic episodes, Cameron (Ruffalo) is portrayed as energetic, creative, and spontaneous, which can be both endearing and exhausting for his children. The film highlights the challenges of living with a parent who has bipolar disorder but also emphasizes the love and care that exist within the family. The movie strikes a balance between depicting the hardships and the humanity of those living with this condition.
Bottomline
While bipolar disorder is a challenging condition to portray accurately in the media, these films and TV shows have managed to do so with sensitivity and depth. They not only provide a glimpse into the lives of individuals living with bipolar disorder but also highlight the impact it has on families and loved ones. Through nuanced storytelling and authentic character development, these works help raise awareness and reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness.