Autism: The Musical

The kids in Autism: The Musical deserve a standing ovation—right along with their parents—for the musical comedy revue they perform near the end of Tricia Regan's remarkable film, which chronicles the six-month "Miracle Project" program founded in Los Angeles by Elaine Hall, mother of an autistic child. Focusing on the unique challenges faced by five autistic children as they prepare for their stage debut, Regan's film is structured as a revelatory character study, featuring all of the joy and heartbreak you might expect from a Hollywood tearjerker. But what we see here is anything but maudlin: instead, it's an eyes-wide-open account of tenacity and triumph for both the children and their committed parents. One of the performers (a bright kid with Asperger syndrome) is the son of musician Stephen Stills (Crosby, Stills & Nash), but any hint of celebrity is downplayed thanks to Regan's careful attention to the personalities and progress of all. By the time these children arrive for their red-carpet premiere, viewers will be completely captivated. Highly recommended. (J. Shannon)