Celebrating Differences in Finding Dory

Leading up to the release of Finding Dory, I heard so many tales about how special needs played a big role in this movie. But I wanted to see it to believe it. This Pixar movie series has been an important part of our special needs parenting lives ever since Jordan was born. Nemo and his lucky fin were one of the easiest ways I could explain Jordan’s difference to kids in Cameron’s pre-school class. But time fades and fewer kids knew about Nemo.

When this new movie was announced, all I had hoped was the chance to see Nemo involved in this movie about Dory. Limb different kids around the world can point to that tiny clownfish as proof that a physical difference doesn’t have to hold you back.

What we got in this movie was much more nuanced. Finding Dory is more of a movie that allows a lot of different sea life to show how they survive and thrive WITH differences. Not despite. Dory and her short-term memory loss are obviously the main focus as she searches for her parents. Nemo, his dad, Merlin, and a host of new characters join in to support Dory.

This movie celebrates differences without calling it out. Many characters work together when they may have a difference that requires help. (Just like in Finding Nemo.) Interestingly enough, I never heard the term “lucky fin” mentioned during this new movie. Limb difference wasn’t the big focus. Nemo is just treated like any other fish. That’s because his fin difference (I just made that term up! I like it!) doesn’t matter. It doesn’t hold him back. Obviously, Dory and everyone else in the movie knows that fact as well. Not once does a fish or another animal ask if Nemo needs help. Nemo gets it done. So do Hank and Bailey and Destiny. Dory learns that lesson as well in this movie.

There are similar themes in this movie that match Jordan’s current life. She’s powering through her life showing how she’s able and not disabled by having fun with her differences. One-handed life isn’t a hindrance. It’s different. It might need to require extra work. I think Finding Dory shows how your difference isn’t in the way of your progress in life. You just have to build a path toward learning things differently.

I asked Jordan what she thought about the movie. Here’s her official review. If you had a chance to see it over the weekend, I’d love to hear what you thought as well. (Warning: She hints at some spoilers.)

I love seeing movies that offer perspectives on physical and invisible differences. Finding Dory offers a positive outlook in a gentle way. It isn’t forced onto you. And yes, as Jordan mentions in the video, it’s worth watching the movie until the very end of the credits.