Representation of Organ Transplantation in Cinema and Television

Abstract

Media whether print or visual such as films and television remains an important source of information and education for the general population even if it is not meant to be such. Films in particular have significant impact on the individual psyche. Films are meant for entertainment but it is inevitable that they will reflect the attitudes of society and in turn will influence the way societies and their members perceive conditions. In this paper we describe the use of films in making audiences aware of issues related to organ-donation. We review how films have dealt with the issue of organ transplantation over the years and suggest that a positive portrayal of organ transplantation in films and other media channels will allay negative attitudes in people and may act as catalysts of behavior change. This can motivate more people to donate organs posthumously. The portrayals of the act itself, its sequelae for the recipient and the donor’s families will be discussed.