The Story of Luke (2012)

Written and Directed by Alonso Mayo
Starring Lou Taylor Pucci, Seth Green, Cary Elwes and Kristin Bauer van Straten

Sheltered by his grandparents, Luke, a young man with autism, is thrust into a world that doesn't expect anything from him. But Luke is on a quest for a job and true love to prove everyone wrong. And he isn't taking no for an answer.

It is refreshing to see a movie about someone with autism that isn't depicted as being completely crippled by their disorder. So often in films today, people with mental disabilities are shown as having little function in the real world. This film completely trumps that stereotype and also plays to it through the supporting cast.

In the beginning of this film, Luke's family has the same prejudices towards him that many people in society have. They believe he can't fend for himself. They think that he can't think or speak. They are just ignorant to the disorder and it's affects. Yet as the film goes on, they begin to understand and are aware, somewhat, of what is actually going on in his head.

I am definitely not an expert on people with autism, so perhaps this film is completely off. But the few experiences I have had with autistic people is reflected in this film. Lou Taylor Pucci tackles his character with a reverence and understanding that is so easily lost when portraying someone with a neurodevelopment disorder, especially in a story that has the pressure of comedic timing.

Yet the writing and acting is so honest that it feels completely real. And despite the difficulty he has understanding social interaction, there is no doubt that each line is delivered with a hint of humanity. I can't remember witnessing a film like this.

My Rating: 7.6/10