Films About Extraordinary Kids

Description: This heartwarming tale follows Eric, an autistic boy who believes he can fly. His unique abilities and imagination help him connect with a new neighbor, showcasing the extraordinary within the ordinary.

Fact: The film was one of the first to portray autism in a positive light, focusing on the character's abilities rather than limitations.

Description: Forrest, with an IQ of 75, navigates through life with his unique perspective, touching many lives along the way. His story is one of innocence, love, and the extraordinary journey of an ordinary man.

Fact: The film won six Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and Tom Hanks won Best Actor for his role as Forrest.

Description: The story of two outcast boys, one with a physical disability and the other with learning difficulties, who form an unlikely friendship and embark on adventures. Their bond showcases the power of friendship and the extraordinary in each of them.

Fact: The film is based on the novel "Freak the Mighty" by Rodman Philbrick.

Description: While not about a child, this film explores the life of John Nash, who as a young man showed signs of genius, later dealing with schizophrenia. His journey from childhood to adulthood highlights the extraordinary mind of a unique individual.

Fact: The film won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and Russell Crowe was nominated for Best Actor for his portrayal of Nash.

Description: Michael Oher, a homeless teenager, is taken in by a family who helps him realize his potential as a football player. His journey from adversity to success is both inspiring and extraordinary.

Fact: Sandra Bullock won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in this film.

Description: Although focusing on an adult, the film starts with the childhood of Philippe, a wealthy aristocrat who becomes quadriplegic. His story, intertwined with his caregiver's, highlights the extraordinary in everyday life.

Fact: The film was a massive box office success in France and was nominated for a Golden Globe for Best Foreign Language Film.

Description: August "Auggie" Pullman, a boy with a cranio-facial difference, enters mainstream elementary school for the first time. His story is one of courage, kindness, and the impact of acceptance.

Fact: The film was based on the best-selling novel by R.J. Palacio, and the character of Auggie was inspired by a real-life encounter Palacio had with a child with a similar condition.

Description: This film tells the story of Jack, a five-year-old boy who has lived his entire life in a single room with his mother, who was abducted and held captive. Jack's unique perspective on the world outside his room makes him an extraordinary child.

Fact: The film was adapted from Emma Donoghue's novel of the same name, and Brie Larson won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role as Jack's mother.

Description: Zak, a young man with Down syndrome, escapes from a nursing home to pursue his dream of becoming a professional wrestler. His journey is filled with adventure and friendship, highlighting his extraordinary spirit.

Fact: This film was the first narrative feature to receive a SAG-AFTRA Interim Agreement to cast an actor with Down syndrome in a lead role.

Description: This biographical drama tells the story of Christy Brown, born with cerebral palsy, who could only control his left foot. His life and achievements are a testament to the human spirit's resilience.

Fact: Daniel Day-Lewis won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of Christy Brown.