Disney's "Out of Mind" Movie to Center on Children with Cerebral Palsy, Other Disabilities

Disney is coming up with a movie that tells about the experience of a girl with cerebral palsy, who, despite being nonverbal and confined to a wheelchair, is still determined to get an education.

The movie is an adaptation of Sharon Draper's novel "Out of Mind," a heartwarming story of Melody. As per The Guardian, Melody has cerebral palsy but dreams about walking and talking, which she cannot do due to her condition.

Because of her limitations, she is not given the same opportunity as her classmates. However, a young teacher notices the girl's potential and encourages Melody to pursue her education.

Out of Mind

The book tells of the hardships of people with cerebral palsy and sheds light on how hard it is for people with disabilities to navigate through life.

Newcomer Phoebe-Rae Taylor, also diagnosed with cerebral palsy, plays Melody, who has a quick wit and sharp mind.

The book is beautifully crafted and written with an understanding of people who have disabilities.

According to Academy Award nominee Peter Saraf who will produce the project, the movie is a beautiful opportunity to center on the experiences of people with disabilities. He is also excited to work with a creative team on Shanon Draper's powerful story about following your dreams and making an impact in the world despite physical or mental limitations.

Amber Sealey, the director, hopes that the upcoming movie will be an important part of disability awareness and inclusion, and "expand the conversation surrounding diversity and disability," The Deadline reported.

Sealey is an award-winning filmmaker known for 2021's No Man Of God, that starred Elijah Wood.

An inclusive production team

Disney said the production team had included people from cerebral palsy and augmentative and alternative communication device communities since the start of the project.

Taylor got the lead role following a worldwide search. Sealey said that they found an amazing actress in Taylor, and she is excited to meet her.

What is Cerebral Palsy?

Cerebral palsy is a disorder that affects a person's mobility, balance, and posture. It is caused by abnormal brain development or damage to the developing brain, affecting the person's ability to control their muscles.

The symptoms vary from person to person. Some people, especially those with severe symptoms, might need special equipment to walk. Others might not be able to walk at all and would need lifelong care. Other persons with cerebral palsy also have intellectual disability, seizures, vision, hearing, or speech problems, as per the Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

There are around 764,000 people in the U.S., and approximately 10,000 babies are born each year with cerebral palsy. The condition is the most commonly diagnosed childhood motor disability in the U.S.