Cinema that talks about Autism
World Autism Awareness Day was established in 2007 by the UN General Assembly on the date of April 2
In recent years, cinema has produced several works dealing with the topic of autism, offering audiences varied and profound representations of this condition
In recent years, cinema has produced several works that address autism, offering the public varied and deep portrayals of this condition.
One of the latest contributions is La Vita da Grandi (Life as Adults), directed by Greta Scarano and set for release on April 3, 2025. The film tells the story of Irene, played by Matilda De Angelis, who returns to her hometown of Rimini to care for her older brother, Omar. Omar, who dreams of becoming a famous rap singer and building a family, embarks on a journey of growth and awareness, supported by his sister. Inspired by a true story, the film addresses themes of autonomy and inclusion, raising awareness of the challenges and aspirations of neurodivergent people.
Another notable production is Vite Parallele (Parallel Lives), directed by Herman Zadra and awarded the “Leone di Vetro” (Glass Lion) at the Venice Film Festival. Supported by the Trentino Foundation for Autism, the film explores the world of autism spectrum disorders through three stories based on real events. The plot follows the struggles of different families dealing with the daily challenges of autism, offering an authentic and poignant look at their reality. The participation of actors with direct experience of autism adds depth and authenticity to the narrative, contributing to greater public understanding and awareness.
Standing Up is a film that approaches the theme of autism through the story of Max, an aspiring comedian played by Bobby Cannavale, who incorporates jokes about his autistic son, Ezra, into his comedy routine. The film follows family dynamics and the challenges of raising and supporting an autistic child. However, the film received criticism for being overly sentimental and didactic, lacking depth in exploring autism-related themes.
Another significant example is The Specials (Les Spécialistes), which stars Vincent Cassel as Bruno, co-founder of a non-profit organization that supports autistic children in the disadvantaged neighborhoods of Paris. The film offers a glimpse into the daily struggles and the dedication of those who devote their lives to assisting people with autism, highlighting stories of empathy and commitment.
Finally, The Stimming Pool is a documentary film co-created by the Neurocultures Collective, a group of young autistic artists. Directed by Steven Eastwood, the film blends documentary and experimental elements to explore how autism influences creativity and self-perception. The personal stories of collective members are presented through artistic projects, offering a unique and intimate perspective on their experiences.
These films contribute to a richer and more nuanced representation of autism in contemporary cinema, offering stories that range from emotional to documentary, humorous to dramatic.
Each invites viewers to reflect on the many facets of the autistic experience, promoting greater understanding and inclusion in society.