Autism and Cinema is a unique website that will examine and promote the extraordinary links which exist between people on the autistic spectrum and the world of film. Although numerous films have been made about autism, from Rainman through to Mercury Rising and A Beautiful Mind, nobody has ever bothered to consult the autistic community about the type of films which they want to see, even though high functioning young people with autism are financially independent with their own personal budgets. This vitally important, yet overlooked, demographic frequent the Cinema far more than regular people, if they find a film that they like, they may visit the cinema numerous times in a short period to watch the same movie again and again. As soon as the production is released on DVD then they buy it on several formats including Blu-ray, whilst purchasing the associated merchandise, unlike the vast majority of people they do not wait for the price to be reduced.
My research and observation in this area over the past decade has led me to believe that an Autistic Film Goer can be worth up to 10 times the value of a regular cinema enthusiast, in terms of gross revenue. Taking into consideration these statistics, surely it would make sense for film studios to actually consult the autism community on their new projects, before they go into production. If they did, then they would not only boost the sales and profit margins of their ventures, but they would make those with autism feel more integrated and valued by society.
Autism and Cinema is also an educational tool, for all film enthusiasts. I have looked at everything from the History of Cinema, through to modern days classics, to the very special people whose talent has blessed the silver screen, through to the Film Awards and Festivals which captivate the industry each year. All of the films on this website which I have reviewed are suitable for those with autism. As a young person with autism my reviews and opinions can be used by family members and friends who are seeking to buy a suitable DVD for someone on the spectrum, as this can also be a stressful process, strewn with pitfalls that the regular person cannot see.
I hope you enjoy my website. I studied Film and Media at the Berkshire College of Agriculture, passing my 4 year course with honours in June 2020. I am now working on my own projects, focusing on biopics, if successful I would like to eventually progress with support to being a Film Director.
Calum Roberts Script Writer