Life Animated

2016 American film

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Theatrical release poster

Directed by	Roger Ross Williams
Written by	Ron Suskind (book)
Screenplay by
Story by
Based on
Produced by	Julie Goldman
Starring	Owen Suskind, Ron Suskind, Cornelia Suskind, Walter Suskind
Narrated by
Cinematography	Tom Bergmann

Life, Animated is a 2016 American documentary film directed by Roger Ross Williams. The film is based on the book "Life, Animated: A Story of Sidekicks, Heroes, and Autism" by Ron Suskind. It tells the story of Owen Suskind, a young man with autism who learned to communicate with the world through his love of Disney animated films.

Synopsis

The documentary follows the life of Owen Suskind, who was diagnosed with autism at the age of three. For years, Owen was unable to speak or connect with others, retreating into his own world. His parents, Ron and Cornelia Suskind, were at a loss until they discovered that Owen had memorized the dialogue from Disney animated movies. By using these films as a tool, Owen's family was able to communicate with him and help him develop language and social skills.

The film explores Owen's journey from childhood to adulthood, highlighting his struggles and triumphs. It showcases how he uses Disney characters and stories to make sense of the world around him, and how this unique method of communication has helped him to lead a more independent life.

Production

"Life, Animated" was produced by Julie Goldman and directed by Roger Ross Williams, who is known for his work on "Music by Prudence" and "God Loves Uganda." The film features a combination of live-action footage, home videos, and original animations that bring Owen's inner world to life. The animations were created to illustrate Owen's imaginative interpretations of Disney films and how they relate to his personal experiences.

Reception

The film premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in 2016, where it received critical acclaim and won the Directing Award in the U.S. Documentary category. It was also nominated for the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature at the 89th Academy Awards.

Critics praised "Life, Animated" for its heartfelt portrayal of autism and its innovative use of animation to convey Owen's story. The film was lauded for its ability to shed light on the challenges faced by individuals with autism and their families, while also celebrating the power of storytelling and imagination.

Impact

"Life, Animated" has had a significant impact on the public's understanding of autism and the potential for creative approaches to communication. It has inspired educators, therapists, and families to explore new ways of engaging with individuals on the autism spectrum. The film has also contributed to ongoing discussions about the representation of autism in media and the importance of inclusivity.

Also see

• Autism spectrum disorder
• Disney animated films
• Documentary film
• Ron Suskind
• Roger Ross Williams