Gordos (2009): Obesity in Films and Its Use in Education

Abstract

This paper analyses the characteristics of the six obese characters in Gordos (2009) by Daniel Sánchez Arévalo. This is an ensemble film that revolves around a therapy group, in which the most important theme is the need for participants to understand the feelings and emotions they hide behind their obesity. First, we discuss the prevalence of this chronic, complex and multifactorial disease, which the WHO has declared an epidemic of the 21st century. Next, the most important features of the main characters are analysed as well as their evolution throughout the film. We then summarise the decisive factors and the characters' clinical and medical treatments, and describe some aspects of the filming. Finally, the potential use of Gordos in education is discussed.