Director: Janet Hardbord
Role: Contributor
A film shot in 1957 in at the Maudsley Hospital, London, captures the movements and behaviour of children under observation for atypical behaviour. In the present day, three autistic respondents watch the footage, bringing new insightful interpretations of the children’s behaviour as they explore the sparse environment of the clinic. Through speculation and identification, with wit and audacity, the responses forge a new soundtrack from an autistic point of view. As the film evolves, it takes on the rhythms and repetitions of the children’s activities, becoming a playful homage to the body language of autism.
OFFICIAL SELECTION:
Hot Docs Documentary Festival 2024
Winner in the best international short category
Krakow Film Festival 2024
Edinburgh Film Festival 2024
The film was also adapted for radio as part of Short Cuts on BBC Radio 4:
Link to listen