Brain on Fire

About Brain on Fire

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- About - Making / Production - Actors - Trivia / Interesting Facts - Awards - Quotes - Music - Soundtrack

About

Brain on Fire is a 2016 biographical drama film directed and written by Gerard Barrett. The movie is based on the memoir of the same name by Susannah Cahalan, detailing her struggle with a rare autoimmune disease called anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis. The story follows Susannah Cahalan, a young journalist at the New York Post, who suddenly starts experiencing bizarre behavior and seizures. As her condition worsens, she becomes increasingly paranoid and violent, leading to her hospitalization. Doctors struggle to diagnose her mysterious illness until she meets a doctor who believes in her and helps her fight to regain her life. The film candidly depicts the harrowing experience of Susannah Cahalan as she battles with her debilitating condition and the emotional toll it takes on her and her loved ones. Brain on Fire provides a poignant and insightful portrayal of the challenges faced by those with rare neurological disorders.

Making / Production

- The film was shot on location in Vancouver, Canada. - Director Gerard Barrett meticulously researched anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis to accurately portray Susannah Cahalan's ordeal. - The production team worked closely with medical professionals and patients who have experienced the disease to ensure authenticity in the portrayal of the symptoms and treatment.

Actors

- Chloe Grace Moretz as Susannah Cahalan: Moretz delivers a powerful performance as the protagonist, capturing the emotional turmoil and physical struggles of Susannah's journey. - Thomas Mann as Stephen: Mann plays Stephen, Susannah's boyfriend, who grapples with the challenges of supporting her through her illness.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

- Susannah Cahalan, the real-life inspiration behind the film, makes a cameo appearance in Brain on Fire. - Chloe Grace Moretz underwent extensive preparation for her role, including meeting with Susannah Cahalan and studying her mannerisms and experiences.

Awards

Brain on Fire received critical acclaim for its portrayal of Susannah Cahalan's story and Chloe Grace Moretz's performance but did not win any major awards.

Quotes

- "I have my daughter back because of you. You saved her life." - A powerful line from the film that captures the impact of the doctor's support on Susannah's journey. - "You have something called anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis." - The moment of diagnosis that changes Susannah's life.

Music

The film's score was composed by John Paesano, whose music enhances the emotional depth of Susannah Cahalan's story with evocative melodies and haunting themes.

Soundtrack

- "Gold" by Kiiara - "Never know" by Lankerway - "Mother & Father" by Broods This comprehensive exploration of Brain on Fire delves into the film's themes, production, cast performances, and the emotional impact of the story it tells.