Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects how a person communicates, interacts socially, and processes sensory information.
Autism is a spectrum disorder, which means that it affects each person differently. The portrayal of autism in films and TV shows has increased in recent years, providing a platform to raise awareness and understanding of the condition.
Netflix is a popular streaming service that offers a variety of content, including films and TV shows that feature autism. This article will explore the seven best films and TV shows about autism on Netflix.
These films and shows aim to provide a realistic portrayal of autism, highlighting the challenges and strengths of individuals on the autism spectrum.
By watching these films and shows, viewers can gain a deeper understanding of autism and learn to appreciate the unique perspectives and experiences of individuals on the spectrum.
Whether you are a parent, teacher, or simply interested in learning more about autism, these films and shows can provide valuable insights and perspectives.
Article Contents
1. Atypical
Atypical is a Netflix original series that follows the life of Sam Gardner, an 18-year-old boy with autism. The show is a coming-of-age story that explores the challenges and triumphs of Sam and his family as they navigate through life.
The show has received mixed reviews from critics and audiences, with some praising its representation of autism and others criticizing its portrayal of the condition. However, the show has been praised for its diverse cast and its ability to tackle difficult subjects such as sexuality, relationships, and family dynamics.
Atypical is a great show for those who want to learn more about autism and its impact on individuals and their families. It is a heartwarming and emotional journey that will leave viewers with a greater understanding and appreciation for the challenges faced by those with autism.
- Genre: Comedy, Drama
- IMDb Rating: 8.3/10
- Cast: Keir Gilchrist, Jennifer Jason Leigh, Brigette Lundy-Paine, Michael Rapaport
Read also: Autism and You: How to cope with the challenges
2. The A Word
The A Word is a British TV series that premiered in 2016 and is available on Netflix. The show centers around the Hughes family and their youngest son, Joe, who is diagnosed with autism.
The series follows the family as they navigate the challenges of raising a child with autism and how it affects their relationships with each other and the outside world.
The A Word is a heartwarming drama that provides a realistic portrayal of autism and how it affects families. The show’s creator, Peter Bowker, worked closely with autism charities and experts to ensure that the show accurately represented the experiences of families with autism.
The show has been praised for its sensitive portrayal of autism and the performances of its cast, especially Max Vento, who plays Joe. The A Word is a must-watch for anyone looking to gain a better understanding of autism and how it affects families.
3. Love on the Spectrum
Love on the Spectrum is a heartwarming and insightful documentary series that follows young adults on the autism spectrum as they navigate the complex world of dating and relationships. The show, which premiered on Netflix in 2019, has become a fan favorite and has been praised for its honest and respectful portrayal of autism.
The series is set in Australia and follows several individuals as they go on dates, attend social events, and work with relationship coaches to improve their communication skills. The show is not only entertaining but also provides a valuable window into the experiences of people with autism and the challenges they face in their romantic lives.
Love on the Spectrum has been widely praised for its positive representation of autism and for challenging stereotypes and misconceptions about the condition. The show’s creators worked closely with autism experts and advocacy groups to ensure that the series was accurate and respectful, and it has been praised for its authenticity and sensitivity.
The show’s success has also helped to raise awareness about autism and to promote greater understanding and acceptance of people with the condition. Love on the Spectrum is a must-watch for anyone interested in autism, relationships, and human connection.
Read also: What Are the Needs of Special Child?
4. The Accountant
“The Accountant” is a 2016 American action-thriller movie directed by Gavin O’Connor. The movie features Ben Affleck as Christian Wolff, a high-functioning autistic man who works as a freelance accountant for dangerous criminal organizations. Christian is also a skilled fighter and marksman, which he uses to protect himself and his clients.
The movie portrays Christian as a complex character who struggles with social interactions and sensory overload but excels in mathematics and problem-solving. While the movie received mixed reviews from critics, it was praised for its portrayal of an autistic protagonist and the exploration of the challenges faced by people with autism.
However, some critics pointed out that the movie perpetuates the stereotype of people with autism as either savants or violent individuals. The movie also received criticism for its portrayal of mental health issues and its use of violence as a plot device.
Despite these criticisms, “The Accountant” remains a popular movie among audiences and is available to stream on Netflix. The movie offers an intriguing storyline and a compelling performance by Ben Affleck, making it a must-watch for fans of action movies and those interested in autism representation in media.
Read also: Why We Need Both Autism Awareness And Acceptance
5. Silent Voice
Silent Voice is a Japanese anime film that tells the story of a young boy named Shoya Ishida, who bullied a deaf girl named Shoko Nishimiya when they were in elementary school.
The film explores the themes of redemption, forgiveness, and the impact of bullying on both the victim and the perpetrator. The film is praised for its portrayal of the deaf community and the use of sign language as a form of communication.
It also sheds light on the challenges faced by individuals with hearing impairments and the need for greater inclusion and understanding in society. Silent Voice has received critical acclaim and has won several awards, including the Kyoto Animation Award and the Japan Movie Critics Award for Best Animation.
It is a must-watch for anyone interested in the topic of autism and the impact of bullying on mental health. Overall, Silent Voice is a powerful film that delivers a poignant message about the importance of empathy, understanding, and acceptance.
It is a must-watch for anyone interested in Japanese anime or seeking a thought-provoking film about autism and bullying.
Conclusion
Netflix has a selection of films and shows that portray autism in a positive light and provide a platform for greater understanding and awareness of the condition. These films and shows are not only entertaining, but also educational, and provide valuable insights into the lives of people with autism.
While each film and show has its unique perspective on autism, they all share a common theme of acceptance and understanding. They provide a glimpse into the lives of people with autism and show that they are not defined by their condition, but rather by their abilities, strengths, and personalities.
Whether you are looking for a heartwarming drama, a thought-provoking documentary, or a lighthearted comedy, Netflix has something for everyone. These films and shows are not only important for those with autism, but also for their families, friends, and anyone who wants to learn more about the condition.
By watching these films and shows, audiences can gain a greater understanding and appreciation for the challenges faced by people with autism, and the unique perspectives they bring to the world. They can also serve as a reminder that people with autism are just like everyone else, and deserve to be treated with respect, dignity, and understanding.
