# Is Mask with Cher a true story? - Canonical: https://33rdsquare.com/is-mask-with-cher-a-true-story/ - Published: 2023-10-30 - Author: Lillie Gabler - Categories: [Tips](https://33rdsquare.com/category/home/tips/) --- Is Mask with Cher a True Story? A Deep Dive into the Inspiring Real Life Story Behind the Film Hey friend! Have you seen the 1985 film Mask starring Cher and Eric Stoltz? It‘s an incredibly moving story about a boy named Rocky Dennis who was born with a rare facial disorder. I wanted to share more with you about Rocky‘s incredible real life story and how well the movie captured it. Mask is based on the true story of Roy L. "Rocky" Dennis and his devoted mother Rusty, chronicled in the book Mask by Anna Hamilton Phelan. Rocky was born with craniodiaphyseal dysplasia, an extremely rare bone disorder. Let‘s take a deeper look at who Rocky was and his condition. ## Who Was the Real Rocky Dennis? Rocky Dennis was born in 1961 in California to Rusty Dennis and her husband Roy L. Dennis. From as early as 3 months old, doctors realized something was different about Rocky. He was smaller than other babies and had unusual facial features with prominent bone structure around his eyes and nose. At 3 months old, Rocky was diagnosed with craniodiaphyseal dysplasia. This disorder affects only about 1 in 218 million people globally, making it incredibly rare. The condition caused Rocky‘s facial and skull bones to grow abnormally thick and misshapen, leading to his lion-like facial features: - Bulging forehead - Flattened nose - Wide-set eyes - Prominent cheeks Rocky also suffered numerous health issues related to the bone growth including: - Hearing loss and ear infections - Dental problems - Vision loss from optic nerve damage Despite these immense challenges, Rocky thrived thanks to his vibrant personality and close relationships. He had an active social life and excelled at sports like bowling, bike riding, and motocross. Tragically, Rocky passed away at just 16 years old in 1978 from complications of pneumonia. But his spirit touched many and left a lasting legacy. ## What Exactly is Craniodiaphyseal Dysplasia? Craniodiaphyseal dysplasia is an extremely rare genetic disorder that causes abnormal thickening and hardening of the bones in the skull (cranium) and face (diaphyses). It occurs due to a mutation in the SLC20A2 or ANKH genes which help regulate bone and tissue development. Having one mutated copy of either gene causes the disease. The key effects of craniodiaphyseal dysplasia include: - Overgrowth of cranial and facial bones leading to disfigurement - Calcium buildup in soft tissues, causing further health issues - Vision loss, hearing loss, and dental problems - Enlarged ribs and long bones in limbs - Delayed growth, short stature The thickened bones pressing on nerves and tissue leads to the medical issues. As the disease progresses, more calcium is deposited leading to worsening conditions. Currently there is no cure for craniodiaphyseal dysplasia. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms through: - Pain medication - Surgery to reshape bones and release compressed nerves - Dental procedures - Hearing aids and vision aids Life expectancy varies but is often reduced due to complications. However, some with the disorder live into adulthood. Early diagnosis and supportive care is key. ## How Accurately Did Mask Portray Rocky‘s Story? Overall, Mask did an excellent job capturing the true spirit and key events of Rocky‘s extraordinary life. However, some elements were dramatized or changed for film. Here‘s a look at what Mask got right and what it fictionalized: ### What Mask Got Right - Rocky‘s close relationship with his mother Rusty - Rocky attending public school and overcoming bullying - Rocky excelling at sports like bowling - Rocky‘s passion for motorcycles and bike riding - The painful medical procedures Rocky underwent - The prejudice and cruelty Rocky faced as a visibly disabled person Peter Bogdanovich, the director, went to great lengths to capture the essence of Rocky‘s spirit. Much of the dialogue came directly from court records of Rusty fighting for Rocky‘s rights. ### What Mask Fictionalized - The characters of Gar and Ben are composites, not actual people - Rocky‘s first kiss and romantic relationships - Rocky‘s triumphant return to the motocross track - Exaggerated some of Rocky‘s struggles for dramatic effect While Mask tweaked some elements for cinematic purposes, the core emotional truths ring powerfully true. As Roger Ebert wrote, it is one of the best films that year for its humanity. ## Where Are Rocky and Rusty Dennis Now? Tragically, Rocky passed away at just 16 in 1978 from medical complications related to his disorder. He is buried in Valhalla Memorial Park in North Hollywood alongside his mother Rusty. Rusty Dennis continued advocating for craniodiaphyseal dysplasia awareness until her death in 1985 at age 45. After consulting on Mask, she passed away from heart failure tied to longtime substance abuse struggles. Though their lives were cut short, Rocky and Rusty‘s legacies live on through Mask and through those they touched with their courage. The movie ensured their powerful story will continue inspiring others for generations. ## The Lasting Impact of Mask Since its 1985 release, Mask has earned praised for its sensitive, truthful portrayal of physical disability and unconditional love. The film scored several prestigious award wins and nominations: - Cannes Film Festival – Best Actress Award (Cher) - Golden Globes – Best Supporting Actor nomination (Eric Stoltz) - Academy Awards – Nominations for Best Makeup and Best Original Screenplay Critically, Mask holds an impressive 93% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Beyond accolades, it raised awareness for craniodiaphyseal dysplasia and other facial conditions. It showed the need to look past appearances to the person inside. Most importantly, Mask immortalized Rocky‘s unforgettable spirit and life story. Despite its dramatized parts, it captured the core emotional truths and reminds us what‘s most important. Over 30 years later, Mask continues to inspire viewers with its message of hope, courage, and inner beauty. Rocky‘s story remains a testament to making the most of life‘s gifts regardless of circumstance. So in summary, while Mask did alter some surface details, it beautifully captured the essence of this real life inspirational story. Have you seen the movie yourself? Let me know what you thought! Rocky‘s story deserves to be remembered. --- Source: [Is Mask with Cher a true story?](https://33rdsquare.com/is-mask-with-cher-a-true-story/)