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Asperger's Are Us

Name: Asperger's Are Us
Director: Alexandre Lehmann
Released: 2016
Duration: 83 min

Representation Score

7.9/10

Good

2016

Director

Alexandre Lehmann

Runtime

83 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Asperger's Are Us succeeds by subverting the typical 'overcoming adversity' cliché often found in disability media. By focusing on the protagonists' desire for professional respect as comedians, the film grants them dignity and ability to act. However, the film's impact is somewhat limited by its narrow demographic focus, which centers on neurodivergent individuals but lacks significant engagement with multi-layered identities such as race, ethnicity, or LGBTQ+ narratives. Ultimately, the documentary provides a sophisticated look at neurodivergent life, challenging viewers to see these individuals through their talents and humor rather than their perceived deficits.

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Category Breakdown

Does Asperger's Are Us have LGBTQ+ representation?

Fair

The film does not center LGBTQ+ narratives or romantic pairings. Instead, it focuses on neurodivergent identity.

How does Asperger's Are Us portray gender?

Fair

The story emphasizes male camaraderie within a 'band of brothers.' It avoids traditional male clichés by focusing on vulnerability, social anxiety, and emotional honesty.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Asperger's Are Us?

Fair

As a contemporary French production, the film lacks a multi-ethnic cast. Representation remains centered on the specific social and neurodivergent demographic of the participants.

How does Asperger's Are Us represent religion and culture?

Good

The film prioritizes the social model of disability, challenging pity-based narratives. It critiques systemic structures demanding conformity by focusing on the friction between neurodivergent and neurotypical societies.

Does Asperger's Are Us include disability representation?

Excellent

This is the film's strongest element, centering the ability to act of individuals with Asperger’s. The subjects are depicted as active comedians rather than passive recipients of care or 'inspiration porn'.

Present on Screen

Exceptional portrayal of neurodivergent ability to act and professional identity.
Disrupts 'inspiration porn' clichés by focusing on talent over tragedy.
Uses an observational, intimate approach to storytelling.

Limited or Absent

Lacks significant representation of diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds.
Does not explicitly engage with LGBTQ+ or non-straight relationships.
Focuses heavily on a specific, homogenous male social group.

Official Synopsis

For the members of the comedy troupe Asperger’s Are Us, it’s easier to associate with a faceless audience than with their own families. No matter who the crowd, best friends Noah, New Michael, Jack and Ethan have one simple mantra: “We would much rather the audience appreciate us as comedians than people who have overcome adversity.” In this coming-of-age heartfelt documentary, this band of brothers finds themselves at a crossroad. With real life pulling them apart, they decide to plan one ambitious farewell show before they all go their separate ways. People with Asperger’s don’t deal well with uncertainty, and this is the most uncertain time in their lives.

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