The Brain That Sings

The Brain That Sings is an inspiring, heartfelt, and enlightening 2013 documentary that gives an in-depth look into the lives of two boys with autism in the United Arab Emirates. The documentary, directed by Amal Al-Agroobi and starring Fahd Bin Al Shaikh and Dr. Douglas Daniel Gould, shapes a compelling narrative on the transformative power of music therapy for those affected by autism.

Fahd Bin Al Shaikh presents a stirring performance as an everyday hero who strives to introduce a positive change in the lives of people with special needs, while Dr. Douglas Daniel Gould, a renowned American neuroscientist, offers expert commentary on the therapeutic aspects of music and how it can stimulate the human brains affected by autism.

The plot of The Brain That Sings proceeds through chronicles of two autistic boys from the UAE - 19-year-old Mohammed and 6-year-old Khalifa. Each of them experiences varying degrees of symptoms, demonstrating the broad spectrum of the condition. Mohammed, the elder of the two, displays severe behavioral issues and preoccupations, while Khalifa is non-verbal with difficulty in social interaction.

Their families' struggle to manage and understand the condition lays the groundwork for the narrative, drawing in the audience with the raw and authentic emotions depicted. Through their experience, the movie successfully illuminates the numerous hardships and challenges families of autistic children have to confront daily.

Essential to the plotline is the introduction of music therapy as an intervention to help manage the autism symptoms. Here's where the title "The Brain That Sings" comes into play. Fuelled by an intense determination, the boys' parents enlist them for a three-month program of music therapy. This program is held under the guidance of therapists of the Centre for Musical Arts in Dubai, whose commitment and professionalism significantly contribute to the central plot.

The film gives a rare insight into this method of treatment, with Dr. Douglas Daniel Gould providing a scientific perspective. His expert commentary masterfully connects the therapeutic attributes of music with the neuropathological aspects of autism. His explanations make it easy to comprehend how music stimulates neural pathways and how it can positively impact the brain's neuroplasticity, leading to marked functional improvements in individuals with autism.

The Brain That Sings transcends the realms of a typical documentary by employing a narrative-driven approach, which makes it engaging and easily relatable. Through the story of Mohammed and Khalifa, the movie provides an intimate depiction of the life of a person with autism and inevitably breaks down the stereotypical notions about the condition.

The film delves into the uses and benefits of music therapy, offering a fresh perspective on the potential therapeutic tools for combatting the complexities of autism. It effectively communicates the powerful message of hope and resilience to the viewers.

Aside from the gripping narrative, The Brain That Sings stands out in terms of its cinematography. The stunning visuals, interspersed with scenes from the beautiful city of Dubai, give audiences an appealing aesthetic experience.

An inspiring saga of hope and resilience, The Brain That Sings, is as informative as it is moving. It successfully uncovers the often misunderstood world of autism and the extraordinary potential of music therapy. The film is a must-watch for those seeking a greater understanding of autism, and a testament to the human spirit's capacity to face and overcome adversity.

The relevance of The Brain That Sings extends beyond the autism community. It's a compelling watch for anyone seeking a beautifully crafted narrative enriched with honest and poignant moments of joy and sorrow, underpinned by the undying spirit of hope. By featuring an innovative, less-explored form of therapy, The Brain That Sings undoubtedly succeeds in bridging gaps in the current understanding of autism, revealing possibilities for alternate therapeutic interventions. The movie is a much-needed and timely contribution to the field of autism and neurological disorders at large.