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      Autism: The Musical

      2007 1h 34m Documentary List
      Reviews 87% Audience Score 500+ Ratings Originating in Los Angeles, "Autism: The Musical" is a 2007 documentary that follows the lives of five autistic children who write and perform their own musical. The film also follows the parents of the five, and reveals the intense personal struggles and challenges of raising children with autism. The parents in the film include well known figures like Rosanne Katon-Walden, a former Playboy model, and musician Steven Stills of the band Crosby, Stills and Nash. Read More Read Less Watch on Max Stream Now

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      Critics Reviews

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      Janice Page Boston Globe As flip and gaudy as that title might sound, this spare little movie is actually one of the most candid, down-to-earth, organically inspirational documentaries you'll ever see. Rated: 3.5/4 Nov 20, 2007 Full Review Jeff Shannon Seattle Times It's an eyes-wide-open account of tenacity and triumph for parents and children alike. Considering the dramatic rise in the number of children born with autism, it's a film that everyone should see and appreciate. Rated: 3.5/4 Sep 14, 2007 Full Review Dorothy Woodend The Tyee (British Columbia) Regan's film tackles the subject of autism in an entirely intimate and personal way, following a group of autistic kids as they write and perform their own musical production. Aug 23, 2017 Full Review Read all reviews

      Audience Reviews

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      Audience Member As far as subject matter and characters go - this documentary shedding light on autistic kids and their families is grade-A. As far as film goes, it wasn't the greatest thing. Getting a peek into each kid's story was great - but the "win", the performance...it didn't arrive or get set up well. Rated 2.5 out of 5 stars 01/12/23 Full Review Audience Member Troubled but completely adorable kids with autism are compelled to star in a musical by well meaning adults. Happiness is found by both who comply and rebel. Both are unforgettable. Rated 4 out of 5 stars 02/07/23 Full Review Audience Member As a person with Asperger's, I have the same issues with this film that I will have with any film about autism. Some of the issues raised by the parents are flawed, and some of the behaviors are somewhat offensive and even a bit condescending. Still, the good outweighs the bad. It shows that parents struggle with the diagnosis, but also shows how they can eventually accept their child for their own uniqueness. The musical aspect of it may seem exploitative, but its intentions are actually quite honest. Seeing an autistic girl who only parrots others go on stage and sing a full song is quite moving. Some of its information is flawed, but it gets enough things right for me to forgive it. It's spreading knowledge of the condition in an approachable manner, and I respect that a lot. Rated 4 out of 5 stars 02/06/23 Full Review Audience Member I only wish there were more scenes interviewing the kids (the one with Wyatt was groundbreaking). As a fellow autistic person, the movie is like the subjects in it: not oridinary, but extra-ordinary. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars 02/13/23 Full Review Audience Member Very moving portrayal of parenting a child with autism as well as some heart-breaking perspectives of what it's like to be an autistic child. I highly recommend it. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars 01/28/23 Full Review Audience Member A fresh, insightful, and truly inspiring documentary. This just might actually be the cinematic gateway towards opening people's eyes about what autism really is. This is an actual story of how the Miracle Project is formed and their first project: help autistic kids write, collaborate on, and produce their own musical, in the process of a year. There are many of the associated challenges dealing not only with putting on the show but also with dealing with the children's autism. Five of the children's families are focused on. Sadly, not very much time was devoted to the rest of the children, but at least they're still a contribution. The documentary has many strengths. First off, the idea to present a more positive side to what is considered devastating is a great premise. In a world where 1 in 150 (now 1 in 88) children are diagnosed with autism, it seems sensible that one be educated to treat autism not as a plague but as a mental difference that, in the end, still makes them human like everyone else and even gives them a gift. The filmmakers' approach to it, bringing in a theater group to start it up, is not only unique but also an awesome way to motivate the premise. The kids are just... wonderful. Wyatt is likeable yet unexpectedly poignant. Henry is expressive. Lexi has an amazing voice. Adam is a strong soul. And I can't help but feel genuine hope for Neal. Through all their associated difficulties, these children -- and their parents -- prevail, which is truly what you want to see. Much interest ensues in how it all gets put together, with humorous and emotional moments. There are a few weaknesses, which don't make it as much of a powerful documentary as it might have been yet don't diminish the film's effect. Yes, these are children with parents who are there with them every step of the way. But these children's parents are rich and affluent, which is a bit unfair for everyone else. Certainly, not all autistic children come from a wealthy background. Some of the adults tend to be rude and rub off the wrong way. And it doesn't go much deeper into the childrens' lives as it could have, but I'm sure this was because of the time constraints. Might have been more satisfying in that respect as a miniseries. "Autism: The Musical" is a lovely documentary that's good for raising awareness and even better for warming the hearts of its viewers, especially those affected by autism. Its optimistic display is bound to make you cheer. Rated 4 out of 5 stars 01/28/23 Full Review Read all reviews Post a rating

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      Movie Info

      Synopsis Originating in Los Angeles, "Autism: The Musical" is a 2007 documentary that follows the lives of five autistic children who write and perform their own musical. The film also follows the parents of the five, and reveals the intense personal struggles and challenges of raising children with autism. The parents in the film include well known figures like Rosanne Katon-Walden, a former Playboy model, and musician Steven Stills of the band Crosby, Stills and Nash.
      Director
      Tricia Regan
      Producer
      Joey Carson, David S. Glynn, Janet Grillo, Jonathan Murray
      Genre
      Documentary
      Original Language
      English
      Release Date (Streaming)
      Jan 25, 2020
      Runtime
      1h 34m
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