Mask

Rocky Dennis is a teenage boy whose face bears the marks of a rare condition, yet his mind is sharp and questions run through his head as brightly as any teen's. His mother Rusty, a motorcycle-loving, fiercely protective woman, does everything she can to give him a sense of normalcy. Set against a working class California backdrop, their bond is tested as they try to blend into a world that often stares and whispers. The film follows their day to day routines as Rocky handles school, friendships, and the way others react to his appearance while Rusty pushes for dignity and opportunity.

Directed by Peter Bogdanovich, with a screenplay by Anna Hamilton Phelan, Mask arrived in theaters in 1985 as a character driven drama anchored by Cher, Sam Elliott and Eric Stoltz.

It earned roughly 48.23 million dollars worldwide on a 7.5 million dollar budget, reflecting strong audience appeal and solid word of mouth for a heartfelt drama.

Mask became a touchstone for late 80s dramas about difference, with Cher delivering a performance many remember as defining for her film career. The film is often cited in discussions about disability representation.

Critics generally praised the film for its humane portrayal of a family facing prejudice and the duo's determination to create a normal life. It balances warmth with tough topics such as acceptance and resilience.