10 Thrilling Films About Autism

Description: A classic film where Tom Cruise's character discovers his brother, Raymond, who has savant syndrome and autism. Their cross-country journey is filled with tension, discovery, and the exploration of family bonds, making it a timeless thriller.

Fact: Dustin Hoffman won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of Raymond.

Description: This film tells the story of Donald and Isabelle, two people with Asperger's syndrome, who fall in love. Their relationship is tested by the unique challenges of their condition, leading to a suspenseful exploration of love, understanding, and acceptance.

Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life story of Jerry and Mary Newport, both of whom have Asperger's syndrome.

Description: Although not directly about autism, this film explores the inner world of Jean-Dominique Bauby, who suffers from locked-in syndrome, a condition that shares some similarities with autism in terms of communication challenges. The film's narrative structure and Bauby's internal monologue create a suspenseful and introspective experience.

Fact: The film was shot from Bauby's point of view, with the camera often representing his limited field of vision.

Description: Oskar Schell, a young boy with Asperger's, embarks on a quest across New York City to find the lock that matches a mysterious key left by his father, who died in the 9/11 attacks. His journey is both a personal odyssey and a thrilling adventure.

Fact: The film was adapted from Jonathan Safran Foer's novel, which itself was inspired by real-life events.

Description: Adam Raki, a young man with Asperger's syndrome, navigates the complexities of love and relationships when he meets his new neighbor, Beth. The film explores how Adam's condition affects his understanding of social cues and emotional connections, creating a unique and suspenseful love story.

Fact: The film was inspired by the director's own experiences with autism in his family.

Description: While not solely about autism, this film features Alan Turing, a brilliant mathematician with traits of Asperger's syndrome, who plays a pivotal role in cracking the German Enigma code during WWII. The tension and secrecy surrounding his work add to the thriller aspect of the film.

Fact: Benedict Cumberbatch, who portrayed Turing, met with individuals on the autism spectrum to better understand the character.

Description: This film follows Christian Wolff, a high-functioning autistic accountant who also happens to be a master of numbers and a deadly assassin. His unique abilities make him a target for both the Treasury Department and a dangerous client, leading to a thrilling cat-and-mouse game.

Fact: Ben Affleck underwent extensive training to portray the nuances of autism, including learning to solve complex math problems in his head.

Description: Luke, a young man with autism, sets out to find love and independence. His journey is filled with challenges, misunderstandings, and suspenseful moments as he navigates the complexities of adult life.

Fact: The film was praised for its authentic portrayal of autism, with the director consulting with autism experts and individuals on the spectrum.

Description: While not a traditional thriller, this film explores the life of a family dealing with autism, focusing on the teenage brother of an autistic child. The tension arises from the family dynamics and the societal pressures they face.

Fact: The film was inspired by the director's own experiences growing up with an autistic brother.

Description: This adaptation of Mark Haddon's novel follows Christopher Boone, a 15-year-old with Asperger's, as he investigates the mysterious death of a neighbor's dog, leading him into a thrilling adventure that unravels family secrets.

Fact: The stage play adaptation of the novel won seven Olivier Awards, including Best New Play.