Introduction
The film A Beautiful Mind tells the story of a brilliant mathematician named John Nash, who struggles with schizophrenia. The film depicts his life, work, and struggle with this severe mental disorder. John Nash, played by Russell Crowe, begins his journey at the prestigious Princeton University, where he quickly becomes one of the most talented students (Howard, 2001). He is interested in mathematics and game theory, and at the age of 21, he wrote his dissertation. At the same time, he meets Alicia, whom he later marries.
However, soon after his work in a government agency, Nash begins to notice strange things and hears voices that do not exist. His wife is worried about his health and insists that he see a psychiatrist (Howard, 2001). There, he is diagnosed with schizophrenia and begins treatment and the fight against the illness.
However, during the treatment process, Nash realizes that his hallucinations are not real and tries to fight them. Still, at the same time, his perception of reality and the surrounding world changes, and he begins to believe that everything happening around him is part of a conspiracy that has been orchestrated against him (Howard, 2001). Despite all the difficulties, he continues his work in mathematics and receives the Nobel Prize for his work in game theory.
Analysis of the Portrayal of Mental Illness
The film A Beautiful Mind provides vivid examples of schizophrenia and other mental disorders. It not only reveals the symptoms of the illness but also its consequences for those close to it and society as a whole. The film demonstrates that individuals experiencing mental health disorders can lead an everyday life and achieve success in science and other fields. Still, at the same time, they need exceptional support and treatment (Howard, 2001).
The film also emphasizes the importance of people understanding and supporting individuals with mental illnesses. One of the standout scenes in the movie is the one where Nash and his wife attend a mathematics conference, and Nash starts seeing images and hearing voices. This scene reflects real symptoms of schizophrenia, such as hallucinations and paranoia (Howard, 2001). Overall, the movie reasonably accurately depicts the real symptoms and consequences of mental illness and reminds viewers of the importance of understanding and addressing these illnesses.
Analysis of the movie A Beautiful Mind conveys explicit and implicit messages about mental illness and mentally ill people. A clear message is that mental disorders are real illnesses that need to be treated and that mentally ill people can lead everyday lives if they receive the proper support (Howard, 2001). An underlying message suggests that mental illnesses are something shameful and unacceptable that people try to hide and avoid contact with mentally ill people. This message is reflected in how Nash tries to conceal his condition from others and avoids contact with other people.
Personal Thoughts and Reflections
Personally, watching this movie has sparked numerous thoughts and reflections for me. First, I thought about how important it is to pay attention to mental illness and how crucial it is not to ignore symptoms associated with these illnesses. I realized that in our modern life, many reasons can lead to the development of mental illnesses, and these illnesses can arise in anyone at any moment in life.
Secondly, I realized how important support from family and friends is for people suffering from mental illnesses. They need understanding and help to cope with their problems and continue to lead fulfilling lives. While writing this review, I have considered the importance of understanding and supporting people with mental illness.
I realize that mental health issues can happen to anyone and that no one is immune to them. However, I also recognize that mental illnesses are often perceived by society as something shameful and unacceptable, leading to the isolation and social exclusion of people with mental illness. I believe that such attitudes towards mental illness are not only mistaken but also dangerous for society as a whole.
The film A Beautiful Mind is an excellent example of how cinema can raise awareness of a relevant and vital societal issue. It draws attention to the fact that mental illnesses are not shameful and should not be hidden but instead recognized and supported. The film also teaches us that people with mental illnesses can lead an everyday life and achieve success in their careers if they receive the necessary support. However, the film also reminds us that mental illness is a severe condition that requires professional treatment. We should not ignore the symptoms and problems associated with mental illnesses, but seek help from specialists and support people who suffer from these conditions.
Conclusion
Overall, A Beautiful Mind is a film that not only entertains the audience but also raises awareness of serious societal issues. The film addresses the critical topic of mental illness and emphasizes the need for compassion and assistance for individuals living with mental illness.
Reference
Howard, R. (2001). A beautiful mind [Film]. Universal Pictures.