An estimated 8.5 million people have Parkinson’s disease (PD) worldwide, making representation in popular media increasingly important.

When accurately portrayed, media can help raise awareness, foster empathy, and offer insights into the daily challenges faced by those living with Parkinson’s. These portrayals can serve as a source of validation, showing people they are not alone.

Queue up one of these top 6 recommendations for movies and TV shows about Parkinson’s disease for your next Friday night in!

1. Shrinking

“Shrinking” is a TV series following therapist Jimmy Laird, played by Jason Segel, who grapples with grief after losing his wife.

As he navigates his new life, Jimmy starts employing unconventional techniques with his patients, which leads to a series of mishaps and shenanigans. While the show is largely comedic, it delves into serious topics such as grief, mental health, and personal struggles.

The show also introduces the character of Paul (played by Harrison Ford), who is a therapist and mentor to Jimmy and is newly diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.

Paul’s depiction is nuanced and authentic, as he navigates telling his family about his diagnosis, symptoms of Parkinson’s, including tremors and freezing episodes, and the decision to no longer drive.

“Shrinking” does an effective job of showing how someone with Parkinson’s might continue to work, maintain relationships, and face challenges while processing their diagnosis.

“Shrinking” is available to watch on Apple TV.

2. Stutz

“Stutz” is a Netflix documentary film directed by and starring Jonah Hill. It centers around Hill’s therapist, Dr. Phil Stutz, one of the world’s best-known psychiatrists. The film takes viewers through Dr. Stutz’s unique tools for personal growth while offering an intimate look into his life and career.

While the documentary isn’t directly about Parkinson’s, Dr. Stutz openly shares that he has Parkinson’s disease, providing viewers with glimpses of how he navigates his profession while managing his symptoms.

The film offers an inspiring look at how someone can continue to make a profound impact, even when battling a progressive illness.

“Stutz” is available to watch on Netflix.

3. Love & Other Drugs

This romantic drama, starring Jake Gyllenhaal and Anne Hathaway, tells the story of Jamie, a charming pharmaceutical sales rep, and Maggie, a free-spirited artist. Their whirlwind romance is complicated by Maggie’s early-onset Parkinson’s diagnosis, which adds layers of emotional depth and complexity to their relationship.

Through Maggie’s journey, “Love & Other Drugs” portrays the struggles of coping with the early stages of the disease, including the uncertainty of its progression and the emotional toll it can have on both people living with Parkinson’s and their partners.

Ultimately, this movie is a decent portrayal of YOPD and a heartfelt exploration of love, illness, and vulnerability.

“Love & Other Drugs” is available on most streaming services, including Amazon Prime, Hulu, Disney+, and Apple TV.

4. Awakenings

Based on a true story and starring Robin Williams and Robert De Niro, “Awakenings” is a poignant film about neurologist Malcolm Sayer (Williams), who discovers a drug used to treat Parkinson’s disease has the potential to “awaken” patients who have been catatonic for years.

Though not directly about Parkinson’s, the movie brings attention to the use of Levodopa, a medication commonly prescribed for Parkinson’s disease. It offers a powerful depiction of medical breakthroughs and the emotional turmoil that can arise when conditions improve only to later regress.

“Awakenings” is available on many streaming services, including Amazon Prime, YouTube, and Apple TV.

5. Ride with Larry

“Ride with Larry” is a documentary following Larry Smith, a retired police captain, who embarks on a 300-mile bicycle journey across South Dakota while living with Parkinson’s disease.

Through Larry’s journey, the documentary raises awareness of the benefits of exercise for people with Parkinson’s, while also illustrating the emotional and physical challenges of living with the disease.

The film offers an inspiring look into how determination, community support, and physical activity can positively impact the lives of those living with PD.

“Ride with Larry” is available to watch on Amazon Prime.

​​6. Mediflix

Mediflix is an online streaming platform offering health-focused content, including resources and documentaries about Parkinson’s disease. While it doesn’t necessarily fit the category of popular media, it has a wealth of invaluable content that’s entertaining and educational in its own right!

Mediflix provides educational videos, interviews with medical experts, and personal stories of individuals living with Parkinson’s. By combining educational content with real-life experiences, Mediflix serves as an essential resource for people living with Parkinson’s and their families.

We’re thrilled to announce one of PCLA’s community members, Patricia Chavez, and her daughter Cathie are featured in one of Mediflix’s newest documentaries! 

Watch “Stories from Living with Parkinson’s” and hear more about Patricia’s experience with Parkinson’s and her motivation for staying ON.

Find the full Mediflix video library here.

A Note on Media Depictions of Parkinson’s

PCLA appreciates that it’s simply not possible to summarize the Parkinson’s experience in a 90-minute film or short TV series. Further, not all media depictions of Parkinson’s will be completely accurate.

Even with their limitations, promoting awareness of Parkinson’s is an essential step in advocating for exposure and change. The importance of these stories in fostering a greater understanding of Parkinson’s makes their place in media paramount, even if they can sometimes be flawed.

We hope you find these recommendations helpful! Let us know if we missed any of your favorites in the comments below.