Far From the Tree

Documentary about families with kids that are 'different,' based on the book by the same name. Issues include autism, down's syndrome, a dwarf, and a child killer. The author is gay, and used that issue and his family reaction as the springboard to examine other families with 'different' children. I saw this at a proper theater and it was pretty good, but in a PBS documentary kind of way, and did not stand up as a feature.

As I saw another user mention, the inclusion of a story involving rapid prompting method was my only gripe with this otherwise moving documentary. As a speech pathologist, I feel it's important to note that this method and "facilitated communication", which was also pictured, are not evidence based means of communication. The "facilitator" needs to be present- even without physically touching they may prompt the desired answer with eye gaze, as such it may appear the message was generated by the individual when in fact it was the facilitator. This is highly problematic and there are a multitude or other options for augmentative and alternative options that are evidence based. I do respect and empathize that this method was likely introduced to the parents by a speech pathologist and it is a reminder of the importance of best practice and evidence based treatment recommendations.

Other than that I thought this film was lovely and it was interesting to hear both the parents and their children's perspectives.

When I think about something happening in my life that seems too much to bear at the time, it's so easy to forget that there are so many wonderful human beings that live through and even thrive with situations I could never even imagine. It helped remind me to always keep things in perspective and to be grateful for what I have. Courage, tenacity, willingness, open mindedness, integrity, acceptance, love and never, ever giving up is so readily shown by those willing to share their life in this documentary. We are all deserving of everything we desire, no matter what our circumstances.

Excellent movie exploring families with a child who is "different" in some way. Profoundly moving and complicated, even uplifting. Makes me want to read Solomon's book.

This was a touching documentary that does a good job giving a voice and empowering those who aren't neurotypical or otherwise. However there is one major flaw with this documentary and that is the representation of RPM (rapid prompting method) as a scientifically valid communication device for individuals who don't speak using vocal method. RPM is pseudoscience and there has been several harmful effects that has come from this, if one does a quick google search they will find several articles where someone using RPM has been taken advantage of or has accused an innocent person of a crime they did not commit. Basically someone using RPM cannot even answer basic questions if their facilitator is not right next to them either holding the device or has their arm on them. There are SEVERAL scientifically validated augmented alternative communication systems out there and I'm highly disappointed the producers did not do their research and are instead promoting an extremely harmful pseudoscience.