Are you looking for movies featuring Autism that provide insight into the condition? Streaming platforms offer a wide variety of options that showcase various perspectives and experiences. These films provide valuable insights into the lives of individuals on the autism spectrum, promoting understanding and empathy.
We’ve compiled a list of the top movies around the web featuring autism, ranging from child-friendly to adult films.
Best Movies Featuring Autism Streaming Right Now
Pablo (2017)
“Pablo” follows the adventures of a 5-year-old boy on the autism spectrum who brings his imaginative friends to life using magic crayons. The show features a cast of actors who are on the autism spectrum, some of whom have contributed to the scripts. Each episode explores humorous and true-to-life storylines inspired by the real experiences of these remarkable children.
A Brilliant Young Mind (2014)
Making new friends can be challenging, especially for teenagers with autism. This family-friendly movie explores the story of a brilliant young man who struggles with forming relationships but manages to build a bond with a girl when he earns a spot on the British squad at the International Mathematics Olympiad. The inspiring story shows that although forming new bonds can be difficult for people living with ASD, it is possible. The whole family will cheer for his team and the new friendship he has formed.
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Please Stand By (2018)
A courageous young woman on the autism spectrum embarks on a determined quest to submit her 500-page Star Trek script to a Hollywood writing competition. Escaping from her caregiver, she embarks on a transformative journey, guided by the spirit of Mr. Spock, that explores the unique perspective of individuals with autism and sparks discussions about their independence and capabilities.
Rain Main (1988)
“Rain Man” has made a lasting impact on the portrayal of autism in cinema. Directed by Barry Levinson, the critically acclaimed drama stars Tom Cruise as Charlie Babbitt and Dustin Hoffman as Raymond Babbitt, Charlie’s older brother, who is depicted as an individual with autism. The story follows Charlie as he undertakes a transformative road trip with Raymond, initially motivated by financial reasons, only to discover his brother’s unique condition and remarkable abilities.
Temple Grandin (HBO)
If you haven’t heard of Temple Grandin, an autism spokesperson, I highly recommend that you Google her immediately. This Emmy-winning movie is a biographical account of Temple’s life, played by Claire Danes. Temple Grandin is a remarkable woman in the field of science, and she also happens to have autism.
Throughout the film, we witness her journey to becoming a top scientist in the livestock handling industry. One of the most outstanding aspects of this film is that it is based on a true story and depicts Temple’s autism and behaviours. It showcases how she uses her unique perspective to make valuable contributions to the world.
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Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close
A film adaptation of the captivating book boasts a brilliant cast, including Sandra Bullock and Tom Hanks, and a remarkable breakout performance by Thomas Horn. The story revolves around Oskar, a 9-year-old boy on the autism spectrum, who stumbles upon a key hidden in his late father’s vase. Determined to find the lock it belongs to, Oskar undertakes a poignant search for closure and understanding regarding his father’s tragic demise in the September 11 attacks.
The Accountant (2016)
Directed by Gavin O’Connor, the American action-thriller stars Ben Affleck as Christian Wolff, a freelance accountant working for dangerous criminal organizations. Christian, a high-functioning autistic man, possesses exceptional mathematical skills and combat abilities. While the film received mixed reviews, it drew attention for its portrayal of an autistic protagonist and exploration of the challenges faced by individuals with autism.
However, critics noted that the movie perpetuates stereotypes and raises concerns about its depiction of mental health and violence. Streamable on Netflix, it offers an intriguing storyline and Affleck’s captivating performance.
Silent Voice
“Silent Voice,” a Japanese anime film, follows the story of Shoya Ishida, a former bully, and Shoko Nishimiya, a deaf girl he mistreated. The movie delves into themes of redemption, forgiveness, and the impact of bullying. It provides valuable insights into the deaf community, promotes inclusion, and highlights the effects of bullying on mental health. With critical acclaim and awards, it is a must-see anime that delivers a powerful message about empathy and acceptance.
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Fly Away (2011)
This film revolves around the life of Jeanne (played by Beth Broderick) and her daughter Mandy (played by Ashley Rickards), who is a teenager living with autism. As Mandy grows older, her needs evolve, and Jeanne struggles to balance her aspirations for her daughter with what is genuinely in Mandy’s best interest.
Loop
In the short film Loop, a nonverbal autistic girl named Renee is paired with a chatty teenage boy named Marcus during a canoe trip. As they navigate the challenges of the journey, they learn to understand and communicate with each other, forming an unexpected connection along the way.
Community
The TV series Community follows the story of Jeff Winger, a disbarred and suspended “want-to-be” lawyer who enrolls at Greendale Community College to earn a legitimate degree. Jeff develops a crush on his classmate, social activist Britta Perry, and pretends to run a study group to spend more time with her. Britta invites their classmate Abed Nadir, who struggles with social interactions and is obsessed with pop culture, to join the study group. Despite their differences, Jeff, Britta, and Abed become close friends and have different adventures together in college life.
The Good Doctor
“The Good Doctor” is a medical drama that can be viewed on 7Plus, ABC, or Netflix. The show revolves around Dr. Shaun Murphy, a character who is autistic and also has savant characteristics. Despite his extraordinary medical gifts, Shaun has to work tirelessly to prove himself to his colleagues. The show features numerous medical emergencies and complex relationships between different characters. The central theme of the show is acceptance, and it highlights the ableist attitudes that exist in society.
Adam (2009)
Adam’s story goes this way: An intelligent and attractive writer recovering from a previous relationship meets her peculiar downstairs neighbor, Adam. Despite his social awkwardness, they form a unique bond that challenges them both. Their journey together explores the universal truth that forging a genuine connection requires venturing into unfamiliar and uncomfortable territory, leading to personal growth and newfound freedom.
Dina (2017)
Dina and Scott are a married couple who are both on the autism spectrum. Dina is a woman living in the suburbs, while Scott works as a Walmart door greeter. The film follows their journey as newlyweds as they navigate the challenges of married life and work on strengthening their relationship. With its authentic and captivating documentary-style approach, the film showcases its unique and loveable quirks, making it a delightful and relatable watch.
My Name Is Khan (2010)
“My Name Is Khan” (2010) tells the story of Rizwan Khan, a man with autism who faced discrimination and prejudice after the 9/11 attacks. Determined to meet the President and clear his name, he went on a journey that challenges societal biases and promotes acceptance and understanding of individuals with autism.
Nathan’s Kingdom (2018)
A young autistic man named Nathan went on a quest to find his long-lost father. Along the way, he encounters various challenges and learns valuable lessons about love, friendship, and self-discovery. The film highlights the unique perspective of individuals with autism and celebrates their resilience and inner strength.
Inside Out (2015)
Riley, a young girl, experiences a significant life change when she moves from the Midwest to San Francisco. Inside her mind, her emotions—Joy, Fear, Anger, Disgust, and Sadness—struggle to guide her through the challenges of adjusting to a new city, home, and school. It’s a delightful tale that explores the complexities of managing emotions and adapting to new situations.
Snow Cake (2006)
Snow Cake is a Canadian drama that follows the story of a middle-aged woman who has autism. She develops a friendship with a man who is traumatized after being involved in a car accident that led to the death of her daughter. Sigourney Weaver, who played the role of the woman with autism, did extensive research to portray the character accurately and received coaching from Ros Blackburn, an autism author and speaker.
Keep the Change (2017)
David, a hopeful filmmaker, finds himself ordered by a judge to participate in a social program at the Jewish Community Center, a place he believes he doesn’t fit in. However, everything changes when he’s partnered with the lively and spirited Sarah for a visit to the Brooklyn Bridge. As their connection grows, David’s preconceived notions are challenged, leading to unexpected sparks and a profound self-discovery.
Ocean Heaven (2010)
Directed by Xue Xiaolu, starring Jet Li, Wen Zhang, Gwei Lun Mei, and Zhu Yuan Yuan. The story revolves around a father who is terminally ill with liver cancer and his efforts to prepare his autistic son for an independent life and self-sufficiency before he passes away.
Killer Diller (2004)
A car thief who loves to play guitar meets a savant pianist with autism, and together, they transform a reluctant group of halfway house convicts into The Killer Diller Blues Band.
I Am Sam (2001)
In this compelling tale, we follow the journey of an autistic man who has successfully carved out an independent and fulfilling life in the real world. However, everything takes a dramatic turn when he unexpectedly becomes a father and finds himself solely responsible for the care of his young child. This life-altering event challenges him in ways he never anticipated, leading to a transformative and heartwarming exploration of parenthood and personal growth.
The Lighthouse of the Whales (2016)
Lola travels to Patagonia with her autistic son, Tristan, to meet Beto, a wildlife keeper who has a very special relationship with wild orcas. Tristan has shown a strange empathy and stimulus-response to killer whales. Lola’s determination to fight for her son’s improvement, Tristan’s peculiar personality, and their relationship with nature will change their lives forever.
