LibGuides: Schizophrenia: Media

Documentaries

People Say I'm Crazy
This documentary is the only film about a person with schizophrenia that was made by a person with schizophrenia. John Cadigan films his life as an artist and a person with schizophrenia which allows audiences to view mental illness from the inside out.
Alien Boy: The Life and Death of James Chasse
This documentary tells the story of James Chasse who struggled with schizophrenia and his death at the hands of police officers, exposing a city grappling with the death of an innocent, unarmed man.
My Name is Alan and I Paint Pictures
This documentary follows Alan Streets, who has paranoid schizophrenia, for 6 years. Alan attempts to make it in New York City as an artist.

A Beautiful Mind
A film biography of John Nash, who was a mathematical genius whose career was compromised by schizophrenia. Later in life he won a Nobel Prize.
The Snake Pit
This 1948 film tells the story of Virginia Cunningham who finds herself in a mental hospital. She is confused and experiencing delusions. A doctor tries to treat her and flashbacks reveal what may have contributed to her instability.
The Soloist
Nathaniel Ayers is a talented musician. He has schizophrenia and lives on the streets. A Los Angeles Times colonist meets Ayers and their lives both change due to their friendship.

Please note that these films do not necessarily portray the experience of any or all individuals who have schizophrenia.