We have you covered this Summer with Four Binge-worthy shows about Autism that feature autistic adults.
1. Extraordinary Attorney Woo, Netflix
Extraordinary Attorney Woo follows the path of a rookie lawyer who is brilliant, funny, and Autistic. The Young Lawyer, Woo Young-Woo, shows remarkable ingenuity as she thinks outside the box and causes a stir in the very formal and traditional law firm. She not only proves her capabilities as a talented young lawyer, but she also breaks down many stereotypical views about Autism.
It follows her special bond with her father, interest in Whales, and law books. It also showcases autistic traits such as echolalia (repetition of words)
The story is heart-warming, funny, and, at times, heartbreaking. Portraying the often covert and subtle ableism that many autistic individuals experience daily.
Because of this you will be cheering for the success of Woo, many will be equally invested in the people around her. Her family, colleagues, and potential love interest. While it doesn’t get the portrayal of autism right all the time, it certainly has done a brilliant job at capturing the discrimination and struggles of autistic people as they enter the workforce and navigate life, love, and relationships.
Extraordinary Attorney Woo gets 4 stars out of 5. Extraordinary Attorney Woo is a must-watch this summer with the family. It is subtitled.
3. The Playlist, Netflix
The playlist mini-series was inspired by the book Spotify Untold written by Sven Carlsson and Jonas Leijonhufvud. The series tells a “fictionalised” story of the birth of the Swedish music streaming company, Spotify , along with its early challenges.
The show highlights the creative genius of Spotify’s two co-founders, Daniel Elk and Martin Lorentzen. It is exhilarating to watch as we follow the journey that challenges the music industry to think differently.
But is not the grit and determination of the co-founders that has us cheering; it is when Co-founder, Martin Lorentzen realises he has ADHD.
In Episode 5 of Spotify, Lorentzen visits Paypal Founder Peter Theil. Theil goes on to explain,
“Do you ever think you have a condition? ADHD. Something everyone else thinks is a mistake.”
“Don’t worry, you are in good company; 5% of the general population is thought to have ADHD, in tech companies, it’s about 40% of people. Many of the more successful entrepreneurs seem to be suffering from a neurodiverse condition, Asperger’s, ADHD. Those with the conditions seem to be missing the imitation socialisation gene. It happens to be a real plus for innovation and creating great companies….”
At this moment we realize that neurodiversity is being recognised and celebrated.
While the playlist is a great story, it is not until you realise Lorenzto’s neurodiversity that the story has a whole new meaning.
The Playlist gets 3 stars out of 5. A great watch for anyone interested in a story or persistence, ingenuity, and grit. A worthy inclsion in our Binge-worthy shows about Autism
2. Heart Break High, Netflix
This reboot of the iconic 90’s series is a must-watch. You are starring autistic actress Chloe Hayden has been cast as Quinni, an openly autistic character. This series is not for the faint-hearted. And if you are a parent, strap in for an eye-opening ride.
Quinni is one of the first autistic TV characters outside of the stereotypical white boys who are savant geniuses. It is also groundbreaking as Hayden is one of the first autistic actors to actually play an autistic character.
The series is set at Hartley High School. It follows a handful of students who are forced to follow a sexual literacy course after graffiti, or a “Hook Up” map had been found at the school. The show does a great job of navigating the ups and downs of friendships and relationships. It also navigates issues around discrimination, racism, sexual identity, and anxiety. And of course, Autism.
Heartbreak high gets 4 stars of 5. Watch with your kids for an honest and open conversation about sex, drugs, racism and neurodiversity.
4. As We See it, Amazon Prime.
As we see it is a drama that follows three roommates on the Autism spectrum, all played by actors who are Autistic themselves. Their families pay a support worker to live with the three main characters. All three are living with Mandy (the Support worker) to gain greater independence.
It is rare that a series touches on the challenges faced by autistic adults.
Violet is 25 and works in a fast-food chain. She is desperately seeking a romantic connection. Violet’s brother is overly protective, and it follows the journey of Violet’s struggle for independence.
Jack works in IT and is navigating his father’s Cancer diagnosis. Jack’s father fears leaving his son alone in the world and is desperate to see him succeed at work. Jack is very literal at work and socially, which often lands him in difficult situations.
While Harrison struggles with an auditory processing disorder and finds noises from the outside world debilitating.
A refreshing drama that will give you a new perspective on what we perceive as normal.
As We See It gets 5 stars out of 5. Given that all 3 main actors are autistic alongside an autistic crew, this series is ground breaking. It will have you hooked by the first episode.
Let us know what you think of our Four Binge-worthy shows about Autism. Do you have any others to add to our list?