Accurate Portrayals of Dissociative Identity Disorder in Movies and Documentaries

Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) is a complex condition that often faces inaccurate and sensationalized representations in popular media. However, there are a few exceptions that provide realistic and sensitive depictions of this disorder. This article explores some of the most accurate portrayals of DID in movies and documentaries.

Classic and Recent Depictions of DID in Movies

1. United States of Tara (2009-2011)

One of the more realistic and sensitive depictions of DID is found in the television series United States of Tara. The series follows the story of a woman, Tara Miller, who struggles with several distinct alter personalities. This show is considered one of the most accurate representations of DID because it focuses on the human aspects of the disorder rather than sensationalizing it. The portrayal is deeply rooted in clinical research and case studies, providing a nuanced and thoughtful depiction of the condition.

2. The Three Faces of Eve (1957)

Another classic that deserves mention is the 1957 film The Three Faces of Eve. Based on a true case study, this film explores the life of a woman with three distinct personalities. It played a significant role in raising awareness about DID in the 20th century. Although the film is based on a true story, the portrayal is still glamorized and less accurate compared to modern depictions.

3. Frankie and Alice (2010)

Frankie and Alice stars Halle Berry, portraying a woman with DID who struggles to maintain her identity and control over her alter personalities. While the film may contain some melodramatic elements, it offers a thoughtful and respectful portrayal of the disorder. The movie delves into the complexities of DID and emphasizes the need for understanding and support.

4. Split (2016) and Glass (2019)

The 2016 film Split by M. Night Shyamalan explores DID in a psychological thriller context. While the portrayal is not entirely accurate, it does provide some insight into the disorder's complexities. However, the film's focus on a serial killer with DID is less educational and more sensationalized. Similarly, the 2019 film Glass also features DID but in a manner that is more dramatic than factual. Despite this, both films have their merits as entertaining explorations of DID, albeit with some inaccuracies.

Documentaries and Real-life Content

While movies can provide compelling narratives, real-life content offers the most accurate insights into DID. Documentaries and authentic experiences provide a grounded and accurate portrayal of the disorder.

5. The Many Sides of Jane

One of the best documentaries is The Many Sides of Jane. This documentary series, where Jane herself takes a leading role, offers a compelling and authentic look at her experiences with DID. Although the documentary only has one season, its raw and honest portrayal is highly commendable.

6. The Woman with 7 Personalities

This documentary provides a nuanced look at a woman dealing with trauma-related DID. While it has been removed from streaming platforms, it can still be accessed through other means. The film offers a sincere and in-depth portrayal of the disorder, making it a valuable resource for those seeking accurate information.

Real-life Limitations of DID on Screen

It is important to note that an accurate portrayal of DID on screen can be quite boring. In real life, you generally can't tell someone has DID unless you become closely acquainted with them, like spending a lot of time around them or living with them. In fact, DID is often a disorder of disguise. Its very design is to bury and hide trauma, even from the survivors themselves.

The challenge in accurately depicting DID on screen lies in the complexity of the disorder and the difficulty in portraying the internal struggle of individuals with DID in a compelling way. While movies and documentaries can be entertaining, they often simplify or exaggerate the conditions to enhance their storytelling. For a true understanding of DID, real-life content is often more reliable.

Conclusion

Accurate portrayals of DID are essential for raising awareness and understanding of the condition. While movies and documentaries offer varying levels of accuracy, they can still provide valuable insights. For a more authentic and in-depth look at DID, real-life content and documentaries are highly recommended. It's important to approach these portrayals with a critical eye, recognizing the differences between entertainment and education.