Published on 12, July, 2020
We watch our films, TV shows and read our books. Some might listen to radio plays, play video games or indulge in other forms of entertainment.
There was a thread the other day where someone mentioned Melvin Udell from As Good as it Gets may be on the spectrum.
So in this thread we discuss characters that have never been expressly named as being Autistic but more than likely are in our opinion.
I'll start. The Driver from Drive. He has a specific interest, cars and driving them. Doesn't seem keen on physical contact. Seems awkward around other people. Doesn't make friends easily but when he does he is very loyal. Lots of other hints there imo.
Cadet Sylvia Tilly from Star Trek Discovery. She has lots of traits, extroverted for sure but very direct (awkwardly though) and was introduced as someone who had lots of aversions to fabrics and materials. Has her own quarters because she was deemed to have "special needs". Was clearly bothered when someone slept in her bed even though both beds were identical. Was fast tracked because of her aptitude in specific things but is inept at others, sometimes. I was pretty disappointed when they toned it down in the second half of the series. I was enjoying watching the way the character was sort of Aspie. I found her relatable.
So has anyone else seen a character they have an idea about?
Yes! I thought The Driver from Drive was probably on the spectrum too. Might have been why I related to his character so much.
There are lots of things in that movie I find relatable. Nicolas Winding Refn's best film. The Neon Demon was one of the worst films I've ever seen. Ever. Valhalla Rising was style (and violent content) over substance. Drive was well paced, shot and just generally put together.
I'm going to have to re-watch Drive now, it's ages since I saw it I remember really liking the soundtrack and having to close my eyes for some of the more violent bits! I've not seen any of Refn"s other films; will make sure to avoid The Neon Demon! Have you seen Nightcrawler?
I liked Drive for the pacing, soundtrack and the way it all fitted together. If you didn't like the violence avoid Refn's Only God Forgives! I haven't seen Nightcrawler. I just have a thing about Jake Gyllenhall. I find him irritating. The same with his sister, even though Secretary was a classic. I'll give Nightcrawler a try though. You and Tom have made me interested!
Yes. I was also reminded of 'Mr Brooks'.
I have a feeling you have a great film collection! Mr. Brooks and Open Range are probably my favourite Kevin Costner films. I really liked Mr. Brooks because the psychopath was so functioning and in control of his impulses. The sad truth of the world is more often than not psychopaths are functioning. Most don't even kill. They do damage with the stroke of a pen or a rubber stamp. In the Company of Men is another film where the psychopath is in control of his and others impulses and emotions. He doesn't even murder. However the film is bone-chilling.
Yes. Kevin Costner plays a serial killer. Similar kind of character.