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Dina is an emotionally charged and beautifully crafted documentary film that depicts the lives of Dina Buno and Scott Levin, two individuals with autism who fall in love and get married. The film is directed by Dan Sickles and Antonio Santini and is shot in a unique and intimate style that captures the essence of the couple's idiosyncrasies and their quirkiness.

The film opens with a series of shots of Dina and Scott as they prepare for their impending wedding. Dina is portrayed as a sweet, caring, and confident woman with an infectious smile, while Scott is shown as a reserved and timid man who struggles with his social skills. As the couple navigates through their pre-wedding preparations, we get to know them intimately, and their unique personal stories come to light.

Throughout the film, we hear from Dina and Scott's friends and family members, who share their experiences and perspectives about the couple's lives. Dina's mother, aunt, and best friend all speak openly and honestly about the challenges Dina has faced throughout her life, including a traumatic incident in which Dina was sexually assaulted. On the other hand, Scott's brother and father share their thoughts on what life is like for a person with autism and how they have tried to support Scott throughout his life.

The heart of the film lies in its depiction of Dina and Scott's relationship. From the very beginning, we see how they both share a deep connection with each other, despite their differences. Dina often takes the lead in the relationship and encourages Scott to try new things, like going on a rollercoaster ride, while Scott looks up to Dina as his rock and support system. The couple's tender moments are beautifully captured on camera, making the audience feel the love that they share.

But the film is not just about romance; it also shows the challenges that Dina and Scott face individually and as a couple. We see Dina working with a therapist to cope with her anxiety and learn how to communicate better, while Scott struggles with the idea of sexuality and intimacy, something he has never fully understood. The film does an excellent job of depicting the emotional complexity of both characters, allowing us to empathize with them and understand their perspectives.

Another aspect of the film that stands out is its depiction of the supportive community surrounding Dina and Scott. The filmmakers show how the couple's family and friends have rallied around them, offering support and love in their times of need. For example, Dina's friends prepare a bachelorette party for her, which turns out to be one of the most joyful moments in the film, while Scott's brother and father try their best to provide comfort and guidance in his struggles.

Finally, the film explores the societal stigmatization and misunderstanding surrounding people with autism. Through Dina and Scott's journey, the filmmakers show how society views those with autism as outsiders and often has little understanding of the lived experiences of those with the disorder. The film subtly points out how easy it is to stereotype individuals with autism, overlook their capabilities and not see them for who they are.

In conclusion, Dina is an empathetic and moving documentary film that portrays the lives of two individuals with autism and their unique love story. It presents a refreshing perspective on what it means to live with autism, inviting the audience to look beyond stigmatizing stereotypes and see the beauty and complexity of these individuals. The film's intimate style, genuine characters, and resonant themes leave a lasting impression on the audience, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in the human condition.