![[Translate to englisch:] (opens enlarged image)](/fileadmin/user_upload/chaosprinzessinnen.jpg "[Translate to englisch:] (opens enlarged image)")
Who doesn't know them? The wacky, chaotic, often cheerful women who don't take themselves seriously, who usually stumble through film history without a plan, but full of energy, with a loose tongue, divergent thinking, unconventional. For them, life is a constant adventure and a challenge. The crazy aunt, the crazy neighbour, the wild sister, the funny friend. Seen with the knowledge of today, we would say: Ah! ADHD, ah, neurodivers!
I will dedicate my dissertation to these film characters. Dealing with them and looking at them: How are they perceived, how are they staged, what is their neurodiversity used for? What roles do they play, what function do they fulfil in the structure of narratives? I want to define the trope in more detail, work out and dissect the role patterns and narrative intentions.
With my work, I contribute to broadening the perception of gender, neurodiversity and humour. Analysing and reflecting on the representation of these characters will contribute to a more inclusive and diverse representation of women in visual culture and create a deeper understanding of the complex relationship between film, society and identity. I demonstrate how films can influence perceptions of neurodiversity.
My dissertation contributes to gender studies and a broader picture of neurodiversity, promoting a more diverse and appropriate representation of female-read characters in film - since those with ADHD are on the one hand quite normally ‘human’, and yet think ‘differently’ to 90% of people, they offer a unique opportunity for particular ways of thinking and new perspectives.
- Project lead: Johanna Rubinroth
- Contact: johanna.rubinroth(at)yahoo.de
- CV: www.johanna-rubinroth.com