KRISTEN LOPEZ returns to the show, for a thought-provoking and thoroughly entertaining conversation about representation of the physically and mentally disabled in cinema.  As a professional film critic and as a disabled person herself, she brings a perspective that is not only personal but also steeped in her extensive knowledge of film and its history.

 Her new book, “Popcorn Disabilities”, examines how Hollywood has dealt with disabled characters (and the actors who portray them) over the last century, when they’ve been seen at all.  But she also points out where films have gotten it right, and how the power of the medium can continue to be used to enlighten, educate, and entertain in the future.

 In their wide-ranging talk, Kristen and Dan cover everything from silent-era Chaplin and Lon Chaney films; to cult classics like Freaks and Sign of the Ram; to more currently familiar titles like Children of a Lesser God, Forrest Gump, Million Dollar Baby, Scent of a Woman (hoo-ah!), and many more – with insight, sensitivity, and believe it or not, the occasional laugh.

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