Cinematic Representation of Body Shaming in Chbosky’s Wonder and Katariya’s Dum Laga Ke Haisha

Abstract

Sharat Katariya's Dum Laga Ke Haisha (2015) and Stephen Chbosky's Wonder (2017) examine the contradiction that arises when mainstream film frequently shapes society's fascination with beauty. Following Adorno and Horkheimer's culture industry criticisms, this dissertation interrogates body shaming to argue that both films disrupt capitalist beauty norms, reframing heroism through non-ideal protagonists. While typical movies uphold generalization, fueling cruel abuse, harassment, and mockery, these films instead foster critical awareness, revealing how systemic marginalization persists within capitalist commodification. Applying textual interpretations, methods and techniques, I have examined and analyzed representative shots, scenes and sequences pertaining to body shaming in these films. My methodology combines critical theory with close examination of camera angles, character dynamics, and verbal and nonverbal clues in textual segments. Although my primary focus concentrates on the films discussed, I include a short observation about the body politics of the Nepali cinema industry. By centering self-acceptance over conformity, these films challenge filmmakers globally to abandon stereotypes. Their narratives urge Nepali creators to confront cultural roots of body shaming and create stories that celebrate diversity beyond physical appearance.