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60+ Best Movies & TV Shows About Autism

Are you looking for movies that portray autism in a meaningful way or have autistic characters? Look no further! Here's a list of 40 movies that feature characters with autism.

steven zauderer
Steven Zauderer
September 20, 2023
5
min read

40 Best Movies About Autism

  1. Rain Man (1988)
  2. Temple Grandin (2010)
  3. The Accountant (2016)
  4. Adam (2009)
  5. The Black Balloon (2008)
  6. Mozart and the Whale (2005)
  7. The Story of Luke (2012)
  8. Mercury Rising (1998)
  9. My Name Is Khan (2010)
  10. Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close (2011)
  11. The Boy Who Could Fly (1986)
  12. Snow Cake (2006)
  13. The Other Sister (1999)
  14. The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time (2021)
  15. A Brilliant Young Mind (2014)
  16. Jack of the Red Hearts (2015)
  17. Silent Fall (1994)
  18. Miracle Run (2004)
  19. The Good Doctor (2011)
  20. Fly Away (2011)
  21. The Peanut Butter Falcon (2019)
  22. Ben X (2007)
  23. Life, Animated (2016)
  24. The Reason I Jump (2020)
  25. The Accountant of Auschwitz (2018)
  26. The Grown-Ups (2016)
  27. The Rainbow Kid (2015)
  28. Ocean Heaven (2010)
  29. The Horse Boy (2009)
  30. The Music Never Stopped (2011)
  31. The Speed Cubers (2020)
  32. Tru Love (2013)
  33. The Autism Enigma (2010)
  34. Autism Is a World (2004)
  35. Wretches & Jabberers (2011)
  36. Autism: The Musical (2007)
  37. Loving Lampposts (2010)
  38. Neurotypical (2013)
  39. Asperger's Are Us (2016)
  40. The United States of Autism (2013)

These movies cover a wide range of genres, from drama to comedy, and showcase the diversity of the autism spectrum.

Some of these movies are based on true stories, while others are fictional, but all of them offer a unique perspective on autism.

Whether you're looking for a heartwarming story or a thought-provoking exploration of the challenges faced by people with autism, this list has something for everyone. So grab some popcorn and get ready to be inspired by these amazing movies!

TV Shows About Autism

If you're looking for more stories about autism, TV shows are another great option to explore. Here's a list of 30 TV shows that feature characters with autism:

  1. Atypical (2017-2021)
  2. The A Word (2016-2020)
  3. Everything's Gonna Be Okay (2020- )
  4. Love on the Spectrum (2019- )
  5. Sesame Street and Autism: See Amazing in All Children (2015)
  6. Speechless (2016-2019)
  7. Parenthood (2010-2015)
  8. Touch (2012-2013)
  9. Asperger's Are Us (2020- )
  10. The Bridge (Bron/Broen) (2011-2018)
  11. The Big Bang Theory (2007-2019)
  12. Grey's Anatomy (2005- )
  13. House M.D. (2004-2012)
  14. The Good Doctor (2017- )
  15. Teenage Bounty Hunters  (2020)
  16. Born This Way  (2015–18)
  17. Switched at Birth  (2011–17)
  18. Young Sheldon  (2017– )
  19. Blue Bloods (2010– )
  20. The Resident (2008– )
  21. Doc Martin (2004– )
  22. Mr Inbetween (1996– )
  23. Holby City (1999– )

These TV shows cover a range of genres, from drama to comedy, and offer various perspectives on autism spectrum disorders, including those of parents, siblings, partners, and people with autism themselves.

Whether you're looking for an inspiring story or just want to learn more about autism from a different angle, these TV shows are definitely worth checking out!

The Portrayal of Autism in Popular Media

Autism has become more prominent in popular culture over the past few years. With more and more people being diagnosed with autism, it's important for the media to portray it accurately and respectfully.

Unfortunately, this hasn't always been the case. In the past, characters with autism were often portrayed as one-dimensional stereotypes or caricatures. They were either savants or completely unable to function in society, without any nuance or complexity.

Thankfully, there has been a shift towards more accurate and positive representations of autism in popular media.

Movies and TV shows are now showcasing a wider range of experiences on the spectrum, from high-functioning individuals who struggle with social interactions to non-verbal individuals who require specialized care.

Moreover, some movies and TV shows have even cast actors who themselves are on the autism spectrum for roles that depict autistic characters. This approach allows for an authentic representation of what it's like to live with autism while also providing opportunities for actors on the spectrum.

While there is still much work to be done in terms of representation and inclusivity when it comes to autism in popular media, progress has certainly been made. As we continue to promote greater awareness and understanding about autism, we can hope that its portrayal will only continue to improve over time.

References

  1. https://www.autism.org/autism-movies/
  2. https://www.autismparentingmagazine.com/movies-about-autism/
  3. https://www.appliedbehavioranalysisprograms.com/lists/5-movies-featuring-characters-with-autism/
steven zauderer

CEO of CrossRiverTherapy - a national ABA therapy company based in the USA.

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