A new twist! We've been struggling to find the "glue" for the content within the film, and I think we may finally have it! Because most of our footage is in the form of interviews (amazing interviews at that), we feel it's essential for there to be a visceral "thread" to help make connections between those interviews. Something that moves (because an hour and a half of talking heads could be deadly). So... we've decided to structure the film as a triptych by following three individuals on the spectrum. Part one will focus on Violet, 3; part two, Nicholas, 14; and part three, Paula, whom we filmed earlier. Fortunately they were all willing, close by, and, guess what? We filmed them last week!
Back once again in the DC area (Baltimore to be exact) to pick up a few interviews we missed. And thank goodness we did! Wolf, Katie and Sasha were all amazing. Editing is going to be tough! So much incredible material to work with.
This past week we met with Sean M., Perry, Sydney, Daniel, and Sean B. who all participate in a weekly social group gatherings (organized by the wonderful, Irene). Not only was it great to hear the perspectives of young adults, but it was nice to see everyone interact in a social environment.
Back to DC, where we met with Autistic Self Advocacy Network board member, Paula Durbin-Westby - wonderfully insightful and inspiring! Then we managed to land an interview Tony Attwood who was in town for a conference. We're still not sure if we want to include neurotypicals in the film. Maybe in the "extra features" on the DVD? Who knows!
I heard Greg Hartley speak on NPR about his new book on body language. Greg is a former Army interrogator who translated his expertise in body language and human behavior to everyday life. Fascinating conversation about the "human spectrum".
