Citizen Autistic | I am not a puzzle. I am a person

Citizen Autistic | I am not a puzzle. I am a person is a heartfelt documentary film released in 2013, directed by William Davenport. The documentary's central figures are Landon Bryce and Robyn Steward and it revolves around the lived experiences, challenges, and the powerful resistance of the autistic community. Taking us on an insightful journey of human condition and personal empowerment, the film offers an entirely new perspective on autism.

The filmmakers aim to disentangle and illuminate the reality of living with autism, represented through the stories of Landon Bryce, an educator and the mind behind 'ThAutcast.com,' a popular blog for the autistic community, and Robyn Steward, a renowned autism consultant and international speaker. The stories they share are both personal and universal, reflecting the experiences of millions of people living with autism worldwide.

The title, Citizen Autistic | I am not a puzzle. I am a person, speaks volumes about the documentary's message. It aims to displace myths and misconceptions about autism, redirecting the narrative toward acknowledging and appreciating the intricate perspectives and nuanced experiences of autistic people. This film is a poignant reminder of the autistic community's relentless fight against discrimination, stigma, and ignorance.

Davenport's documentary takes a dive into autism advocacy, shedding light on how autistic individuals self-advocate for their rights and acceptance. It challenges stereotypes surrounding autism, emphasizing that people on the autistic spectrum are not puzzles to solve, but humans with unique abilities and experiences deserving of respect and understanding.

The film not only focuses on the personal lives of Landon Bryce and Robyn Steward but also integrates stories and footage of various protest activities and moves that the autistic community, their families, and allies are taking to challenge the hegemony of organizations that undermine the rights and voices of autistic people. The film carries a powerful message of self-determination and the right to live with dignity.

The film creates an incredible viewing experience through the blending of footage from protests and advocacy campaigns, intimate interviews, and colorful visuals. The director moves away from a solely clinical or pathological view of autism and takes a more human-focused approach.

The contributions of Bryce and Steward play a highly significant role in the documentary. The effort made by the educators to articulate their experiences is not only moving but also educational, providing viewers with an authentic understanding of autism. Steward, who was diagnosed with autism at the age of eleven, is particularly compelling as she recounts the ways in which the system and society, in general, have failed her.

One of the highlights of the documentary is the exploration of the neurodiversity movement. This part of the film serves as a powerful testament to the increasing resistance and activism within the autistic community in response to the ableism, discrimination, and injustice they face.

However, as much as it is about the struggle, Citizen Autistic | I am not a puzzle. I am a person is also about hope, resilience, and possibility. It is a journey across boundaries and barriers toward a world that responds to diversity with curiosity, acceptance, compassion, and understanding.

This film will be of great value to a broad range of viewers, including those who have little to no knowledge about autism, educators, policy-makers, researchers, and most importantly people with autism and their families. It not only breaks down barriers and stimulates conversations but also lets the voices of those affected by autism be heard loud and clear.

In conclusion, Citizen Autistic | I am not a puzzle. I am a person is an insightful, hard-hitting, and empowering documentary about autism and the fight for acceptance. Landon Bryce and Robyn Steward, through their feats and personal anecdotes, help steer the conversation towards a more inclusive and enlightened understanding of autistic individuals. Their stories foster recognition of the right of autistic individuals to lead their own movements and to be heard on their own terms.