We were able to organise a private screening of the film Stronger starring Jake Gylenhaal, which tells the story of Jeff Bauman, who loses his legs in the Boston Marathon bombing and must adjust to his new life. After the film, we asked the amputees who attended for their initial thoughts on how true it was to going through amputation and adapting to life after limb loss. The film currently has an approval rating of 92% on Rotten Tomatoes, but what do people who have been through amputation themselves think? Here’s what our Troopers said:
“Parts of the movie were spot on. It would’ve been nice to see a bit more re physical recovery and swearing was a bit too much.”
“The film was obviously moving for most of us I think, but honest and hard hitting in general, and it did its best to avoid cliches.”
“Very emotional and interesting. It brought back some emotional problems that I’m trying to overcome – how some friends turn their back on you.”
“Interesting and emotional watch. The bad language was annoying – loads of it! But if that’s his family, fair enough. I was disappointed they didn’t show more of his progress/ recovery. It was a bit cheesy in parts but the actors did a good job, enjoyed the film. I was close to tears at parts seeing what he went through. Best scene when he met the man who saved his life, in a coffee bar and the revelation of how he had suffered his own personal loss.”
“Great attention to detail, down to when he came out of hospital and sticking the banana board down the wheelchair back. So many things to mention but very true to people turning their backs.”
So there you have it – more focus on physical recovery and less swearing, but it looks like the film got a lot spot on, especially how your relationships are affected following amputation. It’s two thumbs up from us! Have a look at the trailer here, and don’t forget to let us know your thoughts on the film when you see it!