Sensory Overload

Every now and then a documentary comes along that not only educates you, but perhaps changes your perspective on something, and consequently changes yourself. I believe Michael Moore's Fahrenheit 9/11 and Sicko were both these types of films. As were Alex Gibney's Enron: The Smartest Guys in the Room and Taxi to the Dark Side. And after watching Jessica Baker's 25-minute documentary on the rising incidence autism, I can happily add Sensory Overload to that list.

As mentioned, the film which recently aired on PBS, talks about the rising incidence of autism, but instead of going the stereotypical route as most documentaries on that subject, Sensory Overload emphasizes on the families and friends coping with autism in their family, their highs and lows, and their joys and sorrows. The documentary is exceptionally well made, especially for a low budget student film, and while it educates (it did me:)) it also delivers a strong and thought provoking message on the lives of people both directly and indirectly affected by autism.

Even though the sound editing could have been reworked, I believe Sensory Overload to be a very well made film. And while it delivers a strong message, perhaps most importantly it showcases that you don't need a million dollar budget and an HD cam to make a point. All you really need is a thought provoking thesis and of course some raw talent. 5 out of 5!!


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Images courtesy of Jessica Baker
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