in progress workA cinematic collaboration with non-speaking autistic storytellers from across the U.S.
Through image, sound and deep observation, these short films reveal unexpected ways of seeing and being in the world.
The films will first be released in the communities where they were made at public screening events, followed by a national engagement campaign.
First filmAustin Lost & Found
Inspired by Everett Colclasure’s college essay about growing up with his brother Austin, a nonspeaking autistic young man, Austin Lost & Found is an intimate observational portrait of two brothers in rural Indiana. As Everett prepares for his high school graduation, the film quietly documents the rituals of their daily lives while exploring a relationship that has profoundly shaped them both.
Second filmJakob Unleashed
Jakob Jordan’s life was transformed three years ago when he learned to openly communicate by spelling words one letter at a time with the support of a trained communication partner.
Since then, Jakob has appeared in a groundbreaking opera, opened a greeting card business and developed a romantic relationship. His deepest wish for his 25th birthday weekend is to dispense with the “clown show” of apraxia—the disconnect between what his brain intends and how his body responds—and hold his girlfriend Jasmine’s hand. Jakob Unleashed follows Jakob and his friends through a wild, tender, hilarious—and surprising—birthday weekend.
Third film