Review of Life, Animated (2016) by Louise D — 18 Jun 2016

Some time ago I read an excerpt from Ron Suskindâ??s book about his autistic son, Owen, and how they broke through some of his communication and social barriers using his passion for Disney movies. It was really powerful, so we were looking forward to seeing a film treatment of it and also getting an update on Owenâ??s post-school life.

The film makes great use of (appropriately) animation to illustrate the back-story and Owenâ??s imagination and point of view. It uses careful filming techniques to allow him to respond naturally straight to camera, and his family are articulate and engaging.

While Owen was absolutely charming, the film was - ironically or aptly - a bit too polished and sweet for my taste, and the complexities of the condition are certainly underplayed. Likely to be a â??heartwarmingâ?? audience favourite however.