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Autism representation in Film & TV - change needed?

MoritzV

Hey everyone, 

I am currently studying my MA in directing film, and I am interested in your view of autism within films/TV shows.

I have autism myself, and I thought it would be great to have an open discussion about representation as I aim to hopefully change things in the film/TV industry.

Have you got any good or bad examples of autistic storylines in film or television series? 

What would you wish for what they either focus on or what should they stop portraying in terms of autism in films/TV?

What would you like to see in terms of changes within the film/TV industry?

My own view is that I find it difficult that there are barely any storylines portrayed or made by people on the spectrum (in front or behind the camera). Mostly it's stories by non-disabled filmmakers with non-autistic actors. If either would be the case, I could live with it, but most current or upcoming shows or movies seem either ableist or not grounded in reality... 

Parents

  • The first thing I would like to point out is your approach to autism. You write "I have autism", which semantically distances you from the condition. I personally identify as "I am autistic". I know this is an age-old debate, but I think it is important here, as you wish to create an inclusive portrayal of autism in mass media. Semantics is how we understand the world, so changing it can have a dramatic effect.

  • in reply to Charlie Timm

    Actually, I usually prefer to classify myself as on the autism spectrum, but I am also dyslexic, so I am not that great with writing... But I do understand what you mean, so thank you for that. I will keep that in mind for the future.  Slight smile

  • in reply to MoritzV

    As I re-read the comment I see how it comes across a bit harsh. That was not my intention :) And it was not meant to be personal - it was just a good example :) Because I really do believe that how autism is referred by anyone is really what will make the difference moving forward. Perhaps I was a bit sensitive on the subject today as well, as I had a quick chat with my grandfather, who still wants to convince me that autism is something I can change and it is selfish by me, not to do it. So yeah, I am sorry for clumsy writing and happy that my point seemed to come across anyway :) Looking forward to see your movies in the future Slight smile

  • in reply to Charlie Timm

    I agree with the being autistic vs having autism thing. I'm studying nursing at the moment and it boils my urine when I'm criticised for saying autistic person over person with autism. Had a rant with my access to work support worker about this exact thing today, to me when someone says I have something it's like they expect me to one day not have it or there's a perception that I could have less of it when it's not something I possess. It just really frustrates me. 

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  • in reply to Charlie Timm

    I agree with the being autistic vs having autism thing. I'm studying nursing at the moment and it boils my urine when I'm criticised for saying autistic person over person with autism. Had a rant with my access to work support worker about this exact thing today, to me when someone says I have something it's like they expect me to one day not have it or there's a perception that I could have less of it when it's not something I possess. It just really frustrates me. 

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