Activity

Gain a better understanding of the perceptions and media portrayals of an individual with an orthopedic impairment, or physical disability.

William Thacker, an owner of a small bookstore in England, becomes romantically involved with a famous actress. His close friends play an important role in his life and support him as he struggles with the challenges of this relationship. One of his friends, Bella, has an orthopedic impairment and uses a wheelchair.

View the following movie and be prepared to discuss the questions below in class.

Title: Notting Hill (1999)

Studio: Universal Pictures

1. How is Bella treated by her group of friends?
2. How does her physical disability affect her relationship with her husband?
3. Think about how an individual with a physical impairment is portrayed in this movie.
   1. Do you think the portrayal is accurate? Why or why not?
   2. Do you think the portrayal is typical? Explain.
   3. How do you feel about this depiction of an individual with a physical disability?
4. Do you think the relationships Bella has with others would be depicted differently if Bella did not have a disability? Explain.