Watch Neurotypical

Neurotypical is a groundbreaking documentary film from 2011 that explores the world of autism from the perspective of people who are not on the autism spectrum, or "neurotypical." The film, directed by Adam Larsen, seeks to go beyond the stereotypes and stigma that often surround autism, and instead give voice to the diverse experiences of people on the spectrum. Rather than presenting an outsider's view of what autism is or should be, Larsen places the camera directly in the hands of people who are autistic and neurotypical, allowing them to tell their own stories.

The film is divided into three parts, each focusing on a different aspect of autism. The first section, titled "Difference," explores the ways in which people on the spectrum experience the world differently than neurotypicals do. Through interviews with several people on the spectrum, the viewer is introduced to the unique perspectives and challenges that come with this neurodivergent condition. For example, some individuals with autism have a heightened sensory experience, which can lead to overwhelming responses to everyday sounds, textures, or smells that most people would barely notice. The section also highlights the benefits of autistic thinking, such as the ability to see patterns and connections that neurotypicals might miss.

The second part, "Disorder," shifts the focus to the diagnosis and treatment of autism. This section raises some difficult questions about how we define and label people who are neurodiverse, and whether the medicalization of autism has done more harm than good. The film interviews psychiatrists and other experts who defend the use of diagnostic categories like "Autism Spectrum Disorder" and advocate for early interventions like Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA). However, the film also features autistic advocates who argue that such interventions are based on a deficit model that pathologizes difference and reinforces harmful norms of "normalcy." They argue that society should embrace and accommodate the variety of ways of being that exist in the neurodiverse community.

The final section, "Identity," is the most personal and intimate part of the film. It focuses on the experiences of three individuals on the spectrum and their families. Through candid interviews and footage of their daily lives, the viewer gets a sense of the joys and struggles of living with autism. One of the main threads is the tension between acceptance and assimilation - how much should individuals with autism be expected to conform to neurotypical norms, and how much should society adapt to include their differences?

Overall, Neurotypical is a thoughtful and engaging documentary that challenges viewers to question their assumptions about autism and neurodiversity. It provides a much-needed perspective from people who are too often marginalized or misrepresented in mainstream media. The film does not offer easy answers or definitive conclusions, but rather invites dialogue and reflection on these complex issues. It is a must-see for anyone who wants to better understand autism, and for those interested in social justice and the rights of marginalized communities.

Neurotypical is a 2013 documentary with a runtime of 52 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.4.