Disability In The Film I Am Sam By Jessie Nelson

Discourses surrounding those with a disability have undeniably evolved within the past century, in conjunction with an evolution in the portrayal of disabled people in the media. Whereas once, people with a physical or intellectual disability were depicted in the media as simplistic and pitiable figures who burden society, modern media has now sought to portray this minority group in a more positive light, as strong and independent figures who should not be solely defined by their condition.
The term ‘disability’ is said to refer to “a physical or mental condition that limits a person’s movements, senses or activities” [http://www.oxforddictionaries.com/definition/english/disability]. Those who have been diagnosed with a disability are considered
Another notable example of this media discourse in action is the 2001 film I Am Sam directed by Jessie Nelson. I Am Sam is the story of a mentally handicapped man, Sam, who must overcome the challenges imposed upon himself by his disability in order retain custody of his young daughter, Lucy. The film was praised by many for dealing with the problems encountered by intellectually disabled people, for example, responding to the discriminatory society in which they live. For example, the scene in which Lucy is being teased by other children in her class for having a “retard” as a father is considered a decent representation of society’s lingering discriminatory attitude toward disabled people which often manifests itself in the use of derogatory terms such as “retard” and “freak”. However, while the film does bring attention to some important issues faced by the disabled community, it still seeks to portray Sam as a victim, focusing mainly on his disability and his struggle as he finds himself needing to “overcome” it, thus arousing a sympathetic response from the audience; a response often considered counterproductive to the pursuit of true