It’s a common stereotype in films and television that people on the autism spectrum remain perpetually child-like, innocent and completely incapable of having any kind of autonomous life.
The Sundance documentary “Life, Animated,” however, works to shatter this misconception. Focusing on Owen Suskind, who was diagnosed with autism at the age of three, and his first foray into adulthood and independence, the film challenges the ways people typically frame those with autism. While Owen makes sense of the world through the dialogue and themes from animated Disney movies such as “The Little Mermaid” and “Aladdin,” this doesn’t preclude him from experiencing the growing pains of moving out, breaking up with his first girlfriend and getting a job.
During a Q&A session with the Suskind family following the showing, Owen’s father Ron Suskind, who wrote the book on which the film is based, said he hopes this film shows people the truth in the term “differently abled” for people with autism, rather than seeing them as objects of pity. He pointed out that Owen’s memory, ability to draw direct connections between daily life and movies, and the fact he can live more in the present far outpaces people who are off the spectrum.
Rather than focusing on aspects of Owen’s autism, the documentary opts to focus on the mundane realities of his world instead. Everyone may not be able to completely relate to some of his daily struggles, such as processing spontaneous conversations with strangers. But the uncertainty that comes from graduating high school, the pain of a first heartbreak and awkward conversations about sex with older siblings are facts of life that most of us have experienced at one time or another.
While this may seem like an overly optimistic take on the realities of living with autism, the film does briefly mention that Owen’s life is possible because his parents can afford therapies and a high-end assisted living home. Additionally, a slight cloud darkens the generally positive outlook on the future. Owen’s family expresses a concern for his well-being after his parents are gone and his only remaining family member is his older brother.
Aside from pushing beyond autism stereotypes, what makes this film spectacular is the way in which director Roger Ross Williams chose to portray Owen’s story. An animated story called “Defender of the Sidekicks,” based on one Owen wrote while he was being bullied in high school, illustrates the overarching theme of growing up and accepting the uncertainty that comes with adulthood.
“Life, Animated” is showing at the Prospector Square Theatre on Jan. 28 in Park City at 5:30 p.m., Peery’s Egyptian Theater on Jan. 30 at 6:30 p.m. and at the Park City Egyptian Theatre on Jan. 30 in Park City at 11:30 a.m. Tickets for the first two showings are still available.
@Ehmannky