Did you know: that, in the original script for Rain Man, Dustin Hoffman’s character was described as ‘, ‘happy and friendly’? How about that, as of 2014, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time has been translated into 44 different languages? Ok, well I bet you didn’t know that the development of Pokémon was, in large part, due to its creator Satoshi Tajiri supposedly having autism. 

See, whether you have noticed it or not, it seems that at one point or another, some part of the autistic spectrum has slipped into every area of entertainment, and I’m willing to bet good money that this is a rising trend which isn’t going to slow down.

That’s why, within Autistic & Unapologetic, I have dedicated this final category to discussing the implications of autism in the entertainment industry. As more than ever I feel we have to ask ourselves, what does the future hold for the autistic community, as we see an increase in these unelected ambassadors.

What is Autism in Entertainment?

Put simply, Autism in Entertainment is a lighter look at the many different thoughts and views people have of autism, as viewed through the various depictions of autism throughout TV, Film, Books, Comics and Games.

If, like me, you are looking to take the occasional break from the weighty academia of online autism articles, then this section of the site is the place for you.

What Will I Write About in Autism in Entertainment?

When it comes to what will be featured in Autism and Entertainment, nothing is off limits: so long as it can be found on a screen, in a book, or heard via earphones or through speakers. The only real criteria here is dependant on how accessible the form of entertainment is, but even I have to admit I have found some of the more interesting representations in some of the most hidden of places.

As for the articles themselves, they can be easily divided by the way in which I will approach the topic and usually fall into one of three discussions:

  • Portrayal Validations:  Where I plan to take a look across all media and access various characters who show autistic traits to come to a conclusion, once and for all, who is autistic and who is an autis-trick.
  • Point Development:  Within which, I aim to take a look at discussions of autism within the entertainment industry, which could have done with a bit more time in the oven; in order to further any interesting ideas which, I believe they may have brought forward but not delivered on.  
  • Idea Exploration: Where I aim to descend into and discuss the many hidden messages and ideas which writers, directors and producers leave within their work: as these themes can often be misunderstood, misinterpreted or just missed altogether, in the heat of the plot.

(Also, though not as detailed and analytical as the other posts in this category, within Autism in Entertainment, I also plan to create articles around the many uplifting lessons which can be taken away from the latest releases and applied to the autistic community.)

Carry on the Conversation:

But that’s really all there is for Autism in Entertainment. It’s a short introduction for a vast topic, which I can’t wait to get started on. But now I want to hear from you: are there any TV, movies or books you would like me to look at during Autism in Entertainment? And out of curiosity, I have to ask if anyone has any particular favourite autistic characters?  

As always, the best way to reach me is in the comments below. However, if you are looking to contact me via social media ,I can be found on the Autistic & Unapologetic Facebook page or on my Twitter @AutismRevised.

Also, for those looking for a direct way to get hold of me, my email address is AutisticaandUnapologetic@gmail.com and I will be responding throughout the week.

Thank you for reading today’s introduction and I will see you next Saturday for more thoughts from across the spectrum.