Too Sane for This World

Too Sane for This World, directed by William Davenport, is an illuminating 2011 documentary film exploring the experiences of twelve adults living with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The documentary skillfully unravels the experiences, reflections, and perspectives of these individuals, providing a raw look into how they navigate life while coping with their neurological differences. The film does not focus on the disorder itself but instead explores the human beings behind the diagnosis, showcasing their challenges, perspectives, strengths, and unique experiences.

One of the virtues of this film is its commitment to giving a voice to those who are often misunderstood or misrepresented. Davenport’s decision to let the subjects share their tales and perspectives directly challenges the typical narratives of Autism. The film provides an engaging platform for people with Autism to talk about their lives, feelings and perceptions in their own words, breeding an air of authenticity that engenders empathy and understanding in viewers.

In the opening sequence, the men and women featured in the film invite the audiences into their private worlds, detailing their understanding of their diagnosis, their sensory perceptions, and how they relate to people and society. The film incorporates interviews with the individuals who discuss their life experiences with openness and honesty. They delve on topics such as interaction difficulties, strategies they've adopted to manage stress, and the ways they have used their unique perspectives to successfully maneuver their specific career paths.

The discussions cover personal relationships, social stigma, and explore the profound difficulty of individuals with Autism to fit into a world that, for them, often feels too chaotic, overwhelming, and insensitive. The film candidly addresses the issue of bullying and the sense of isolation experienced by autistic individuals. However, instead of dwelling on the adversities alone, the film additionally fosters an awareness of the exceptional qualities and remarkable capacities that these individuals possess.

Davenport's approach is comprehensive and balanced. He equally addresses the highs and lows, the isolation, as well as the rich interior lives of people with Autism. The director doesn't judge or exploit, but instead facilitates the audience's understanding, raising consciousness about the daily challenges faced by the subjects of the film.

One of the strong points of the film is the artistic design. The director crafts the narrative with thoughtful camera work and location selection, creating a sensitive visual experience that complements the testimonials. Use of art, graphics, animation, music all contributes to an engaging and visually rewarding viewing experience. These elements do more than just fill spaces in between the interview segments; they form an important part of an alternative communication system, something that viewers might deduce, parallels an autistic person's attempts to communicate in a largely non-autistic world.

The film's effectiveness is also due, in part, to the divergent supporter roles. Family members, friends, and experts provide additional insight into the lives and experiences of those featured. Commentary from these individuals enables audiences to understand how society often misinterprets autistic behaviors, and highlights the need for a more inclusive and understanding society.

While bleak at times, Too Sane for This World eschews the trap of portraying these people as victims. There is the acknowledgment of struggles but also of resilience, intelligence, and creativity. Rather than solely pressing upon the trials faced by those on the spectrum, the film also celebrates their unique personalities, talents, and abilities. It humanizes autism, encouraging viewers to gain a fresh perspective, effectively challenging any preconceived notions they might have about the Autism Spectrum Disorder.

In summary, Too Sane for This World is a brilliant portrayal of twelve individuals navigating life on the autism spectrum. This documentary goes beyond the stereotypes, reflecting personal stories that highlight the diverse experiences and challenges of those diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. It's a thought-provoking film that takes us on an intimate journey and inspires us to better understand and appreciate the world through different eyes.