Description:
Film lovers often observe ... and sometimes complain ... that high-profile movies that depict people with disabilities get lots of mainstream praise and awards because the films tug at peoples' heartstrings. It's also been observed that depicting a disabled person is an "easy" way for actors to get credit for what is seen as "difficult" portrayals. Yet, this can also be viewed cynically as cheap "stunt acting".
But, what does cinema throughout history say about the experience of living with disabilities? What constitutes a "positive" portrayal vs. a "negative" one?