Lars and the Real Girl (Craig Gillespie, United States, 2007, MGM)

This movie is based around the concept of somebody suffering with a delusional disorder, this can make it hard for somebody to tell the difference between what’s real and imaginary.

Lars, believing that a doll he bought online is a living and breathing romantic partner, decides to show her off to his family and wider community.

I find it fascinating how this film tackles the inner struggle of not only Lars and how he copes with his mental condition, but how the people around him are affected, both internally and externally.

The film delves into how we treat each other, especially those we deem as less than because of their mental state. Examples of this come from negative perceptions of Lars, being labelled as “crazy” by his older brother and others. However, by seeking professional opinion and educating themselves on his condition, their perceptions are changed as Lars and his new partner are accepted by all in the community.

I find it interesting how the people around Lars are willing to change their behaviours in order to accommodate his delusion. It makes me question whether it was the adequate solution to deal with this illness; should we change society to benefit one whose mentality is based outside of reality?

Examples of this are found throughout the film. One example being when his brother and sister in law are speaking with the church congregation, informing them of Lars’ condition, politely asking if they would treat his “girlfriend” as they would any other person who walked in off the street, not for themselves, but for Lars and his frail state of mind. From here, the entire town befriend this doll, taking her on days out, giving her a job, as well as bathing and dressing her. The odd glance of disbelief was cast upon many a face, however, this was soon changed to one of understanding and sympathy. The most powerful example of this being Lars’ own brother, who originally found the experience embarrassing and unnerving, this wouldn’t last however, as time went on, he grew to accept and love his brother for who he is, flaws and all.

Watching this has increased my awareness, especially in terms of how people suffering with mental health disorders are automatically stigmatised as crazy, or indeed a burden onto society as a whole. I feel as if I can use the knowledge accumulated by watching this movie and project certain elements into my own short film depicting depression and anxiety, especially taking from how the sufferer is treated by those around him and how this can have either a positive or negative effect on his mental well being, also highlighting communication as an important tool for dealing with such illnesses.