Autism isn’t a flaw, it is just a different way of seeing the world. And let’s be honest, the world could use more of that. These five films and series challenge stereotypes, celebrate diversity and invite us to witness authentic, heartfelt stories. Whether you’re on the spectrum, a caregiver, or simply curious, prepare to be moved by narratives that honour uniqueness without compromise.

1. The Good Doctor

The Good Doctor introduces Shaun Murphy (played by Freddie Highmore), a brilliant surgeon on the autism spectrum with savant abilities. Shaun doesn’t always understand sarcasm or small talk, but when it comes to the human body, he’s a walking encyclopedia. Confronting workplace biases and social challenges, Shaun’s journey defies stereotypes and proves that difference can be a strength. His struggles with relationships and everyday social cues are balanced by his exceptional medical expertise. This series celebrates unique intelligence and determination, reminding us that brilliance often comes in unexpected forms.

2. Atypical

This TV show is for everyone who has ever felt like the “weird one” in school or at home. Atypical follows 18-year-old Sam Gardner as he embarks on the rollercoaster ride of teenage life with autism, navigating how to date girls, gain independence, and make sense of family life. With a quirky passion for penguins and a search for independence, Sam’s experiences mirror the challenges and humour found in everyday family dynamics. The series thoughtfully explores how one individual’s unique perspective can transform not only his own life but also the lives of those around him.

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3. Please Stand By

You want a film with heart? Please Stand By will grab your chest and hold it tight. Wendy (played by Dakota Fanning) painstakingly writes a Star Trek script of over 400 pages. Her resolve takes centre stage, and she is so determined to enter it into a writing contest that she escapes from her care home to deliver it in person. Wendy’s unexpected road trip is filled with moments of fear, courage, and compassion. Her adventure is a powerful reminder that every dream is worth pursuing, no matter how unconventional the path may seem.

4. My Name Is Khan

This one is legendary. A Bollywood classic that Nigerians fell in love with the moment it dropped. My Name Is Khan tells the moving story of Rizwan Khan (played by Shah Rukh Khan), a man with Asperger’s on a mission to meet the president and say: My name is Khan, and I am not a terrorist.” His journey across America is a bold stand against prejudice and misunderstanding. Through quiet strength and heartfelt vulnerability, Rizwan’s path challenges stereotype and celebrates the beauty of being true to oneself, urging us all to rethink what acceptance truly means.

5. A Boy Called Po

A Boy Called Po follows a single father, David, raising his autistic son, Patrick, nicknamed Po. After his wife’s death, things go from hard to heartbreaking. But it’s the bond between father and son that pulls you in. Po lives in his own world: colourful, imaginative, and filled with wonder. But in the real world, he faces bullying, rejection, and confusion from people who don’t get him. In a world quick to judge, the film captures the ups and downs of love, loss, and acceptance, ultimately reminding us that understanding another’s world can bridge even the widest divides.