Is the movie Mask (1985) based on a true story?

Yes, “Mask” (1985) is based on the true story of Roy L. “Rocky” Dennis, a boy with a rare genetic disorder called craniodiaphyseal dysplasia, which caused his facial bones to grow abnormally large. The film portrays his struggles with his physical appearance and his desire to live a normal life.

What is the true story behind the movie Mask (1985)?

The movie Mask (1985) is based on the real-life story of Roy L. “Rocky” Dennis, who was born in 1961 with a rare condition called craniodiaphyseal dysplasia, also known as lionitis. It is an extremely rare condition that causes abnormal bone growth in the skull, resulting in disfigurement and facial deformities.

Despite his condition, Rocky was a happy and outgoing child who loved life and wanted to experience everything it had to offer. He had a passion for music and played the guitar, inspired by his idol Bob Dylan. Rocky’s mother, Rusty Dennis, was a single parent who loved her son deeply and did everything she could to ensure he had a happy and normal life.

Rocky’s life was not without its struggles, however. He faced constant bullying and discrimination due to his appearance, which made it difficult for him to make friends and fit in. He also suffered from medical complications related to his condition, which required numerous surgeries and hospitalizations.

Despite these challenges, Rocky remained optimistic and resilient, living life to the fullest until his untimely death at the age of 16. His story inspired the movie Mask, which brought much-needed attention to the condition he had and the discrimination faced by individuals with facial disfigurement.

Are there any books about the true story behind the movie Mask (1985)?

Yes, there are several books that offer insight into the true story behind the movie Mask (1985):

1. My Life as a Baby: A True Story of Courage, Hope, and Survival by Rocky Dennis (written with Lee and Jean Dennis) - This book is a collection of writings by Rocky Dennis, who the movie is based on. It provides a firsthand account of his experiences.

2. The Mask: A Story of Love and Obsession by Christopher Dickey - This book is a biography of Rusty Dennis, Rocky’s mother, who is portrayed by Cher in the movie. It delves into her life and the challenges she faced raising a child with a rare medical condition.

3. Mask: The Story Behind the Film by Anna Hamilton Phelan - This book offers an inside look at the making of the movie and includes interviews with cast and crew members. It also provides background information on the real-life people and events that inspired the film.

4. Mask: A Memoir by Rusty Dennis (with Evelyn Eaton) - This book is a candid memoir by Rusty Dennis, offering a deeper understanding of her life and relationship with her son. It discusses the challenges they faced and the lessons she learned along the way.

5. More Than a Movie: Ethics in Entertainment by Faye Kellerman - While not specifically about Mask, this book offers a broader exploration of the ethical questions raised by movies based on real-life events. It could offer an interesting perspective on the Mask story and its portrayal in a Hollywood film.

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