The representation of autism in popular media has become increasingly important lately, resulting in several movies about autism on Netflix, one of the world’s leading streaming platforms.
These movies shed light on the struggles of people with autism while celebrating their strengths, resilience, and individuality.
You can stream these movies about autism on Netflix to discover the many experiences and perspectives related to the condition.
These films entertain, educate, encourage dialogue, and promote understanding.
By featuring these stories on their platform, Netflix takes a crucial step towards fostering a more inclusive society.
Here is a list of movies about autism on Netflix that offer a journey into discovery, compassion, and acceptance.
1. Rain Man (1988)
- Cast: Dustin Hoffman, Tom Cruise, Valeria Golino.
- IMDb Rating: 8.0/10
Rain Man takes you on a road trip with Charlie, a slick hustler, and his newfound brother, Raymond.
Raymond is a genius with numbers and a master of routines, too. Theirs is a heartwarming tale of sibling bonds and counting cards in Vegas.
Dustin Hoffman puts out an unforgettable performance in his portrayal that makes the film worthwhile.
As the plot unfolds, Charlie is faced with only one mission. Will he strike the jackpot or end up with a counting headache?
2. Temple Grandin (2010)
- Cast: Claire Danes, Julia Ormond, David Strathairn.
- IMDb Rating: 8.3/10
This inspiring biopic follows the incredible journey of Temple, an autistic woman with a passion for animals.
Temple Grandin is all out to revolutionize the livestock industry. She designs cattle-handling systems that prove that being different is something to be celebrated.
This is one of those movies about autism on Netflix that has a lot of warmth to go around.
It will make you laugh, cry, and maybe even moo with joy. You are sure to have a perfect time with Temple Grandin!
3. The Accountant (2016)
- Cast: Ben Affleck, Anna Kendrick, J.K. Simmons.
- IMDb Rating: 7.3/10
Who said accounting can’t be thrilling? Christian Wolff is the maths whiz with unique talents to the rescue.
When he’s not crunching figures for clients, he’s busy uncooking books for dangerous criminals.
He becomes the ultimate number-crunching superhero thanks to a pocket protector and a knack for justice.
But can he balance his ledger and come out on top? You’ll be left wondering if the numbers will finally add up.
4. Adam (2009)
- Cast: Hugh Dancy, Rose Byrne, Peter Gallagher.
- IMDb Rating: 7.1/10
In this charming romantic comedy, Adam is not your typical guy.
When he meets his new neighbor, Beth, their lives unexpectedly turn.
Adam’s unique perspective and encounter with Beth make this one of the movies about autism on Netflix you must watch.
Will their connection bridge the gap between their worlds? Join Adam on his journey of love and the occasional social faux pas.
The only thing sure here is that true love is anything but neurotypical.
5. The Story of Luke (2012)
- Cast: Lou Taylor Pucci, Seth Green, Cary Elwes.
- IMDb Rating: 7.1/10
Luke is a man with a plan, ready to take on the world, one awkward encounter at a time.
He begins a quest for independence, love, and his place in the everyday world. He bases his journey on a rather no-filter approach to life.
Luke’s experiences open up unexpected friendships and exciting misadventures. His story proves that being extra-normal makes us shine in different ways.
6. X + Y (A Brilliant Young Mind) (2014)
- Cast: Asa Butterfield, Rafe Spall, Sally Hawkins.
- IMDb Rating: 7.4/10
X + Y is the equation for a brilliant young mind, adding to a heartwarming story about an autistic maths genius.
Among the movies about autism on Netflix, this one will have your mind blown the most.
This Netflix gem is a division by laughter and multiplication by inspiration.
The plot spirals a lot of emotions more than a calculus problem. But don’t worry, you won’t need a protractor to enjoy this one!
7. Jack of the Red Hearts (2015)
- Cast: AnnaSophia Robb, Famke Janssen, Scott Cohen.
- IMDb Rating: 7.0/10
Jack of the Red Hearts is a movie that plays all the right cards.
It is a charming story about a street-smart girl who finds herself pretending to be a caregiver for an autistic child. You can call it a wannabe situation!
She goes all-in to win the hearts of the family she tries to impress. But will she be able to bluff her way through? Fingers crossed, as we can only hope for the best.
8. A Boy Called Po (2016)
- Cast: Christopher Gorham, Julian Feder, Kaitlin Doubleday.
- IMDb Rating: 6.7/10
A Boy Called Po is a movie that will make you reach for a tissue paper in no time.
We hope you are ready to be positively moved by this touching tale. Po is a young boy with autism who just lost his mother.
Following this, he goes on a magical journey of self-discovery and healing.
This addition to movies about autism on Netflix is a powerful reminder of the strength within us.
It will inspire you to embrace life’s challenges with grace, humor, and a little magic.
9. Life, Animated (2016)
- Cast: Owen Suskind, Ron Suskind, Jonathan Freeman.
- IMDb Rating: 7.5/10
Life, Animated is one of the movies about autism on Netflix that will make you laugh, cry, and hug your loved ones a little tighter.
This is the incredible story of Owen Suskind, a young man with autism. Prepare to have your heartstrings pulled in all directions.
Owen can find solace in uniquely communicating through Disney animated films.
This flick shows that sometimes, the most magical stories are the ones we create by ourselves.
You can’t help but feel animated with joy and admiration after you’ve seen this movie.
10. Keep the Change (2017)
- Cast: Brandon Polansky, Samantha Elisofon, Jessica Walter.
- IMDb Rating: 6.9/10
Keep the Change is a romantic comedy that breaks all the stereotypes, or at least tries to.
It is a delightful and refreshing movie that brings a fresh perspective. Follow the journey of two individuals with autism who find love in the most unexpected place—a support group.
The film has humor, a sprinkle of romance, and a lot of heart. It will challenge your perceptions, melt your heart, and remind you that love knows no boundaries.
11. The Black Balloon (2008)
- Cast: Rhys Wakefield, Luke Ford, Toni Collette, Erik Thomson, Gemma Ward.
- IMDb Rating: 7.2/10
The Black Balloon brings laughter and tears in equal measure. Thomas, a teenage boy dealing with autism, is faced with the challenges that come with family, friendship, and first love.
This film, among movies about autism on Netflix, is a balloon ride with many emotions.
It involves relatable moments that will make you burst out laughing and others that will leave you floating. So buckle up for a journey that feels lighter than air!
12. My Name Is Khan (2010)
- Cast: Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol, Jimmy Shergill, Zarina Wahab.
- IMDb Rating: 8.0/10
My Name Is Khan contemplates life’s big questions in diverse ways. The story is that of Rizwan Khan, a man with Asperger’s syndrome.
All he wants is to meet the President of the United States and spread a message of love and acceptance.
If you love Bollywood, this is an extravaganza with a heartfelt message. You will be hooked until the very last dance number.
Do you think Rizwan will succeed in his journey of a thousand messages?
13. The Reason I Jump (2020)
- Cast: Jim Fujiwara, David Mitchell (voice)
- IMDb Rating: 7.7/10
The Reason I Jump dives into the deep end of understanding and empathy.
It is a documentary film that challenges perceptions and opens the heart to many possibilities.
Based on the best-selling book, this Netflix gem presents the thought-provoking world of nonverbal autism.
It is one of the movies about autism on Netflix, with breathtaking visuals and intimate stories.
Before it’s over, you’ll gain a new appreciation for the beauty and complexity of autistic experiences.
So, don’t hold back from being immersed in a new sea of knowledge and compassion.
14. Autism in Love (2015)
- Cast: Lindsey Nebeker, Dave Hamrick, Jodi Murphy.
- IMDb Rating: 7.6/10
Autism in Love is a journey into the lives of four adults on the autism spectrum who face the unpredictable terrain of romance and relationships.
The story is a captivating exploration of love, companionship, and the universal quest for connection.
It has themes of honesty and a dash of vulnerability to balance things up.
You may want to fall in love again if you’re not careful. Get ready to witness the power of love in all its beautiful forms.
15. Asperger’s Are Us (2016)
- Cast: Noah Britton, Ethan Finlan, Jack Hanke, New Michael Ingemi, Adam Wolfensohn.
- IMDb Rating: 7.5/10
This story follows a hilarious and talented comedy troupe who turn everyday situations into comedy gold.
The group is composed entirely of individuals with Asperger’s syndrome. They seem to have a unique perspective on life that varies from other people.
As one of the movies about autism on Netflix, this story is quite inspiring.
These performers will challenge your assumptions and redefine what it means to be funny. Get ready to laugh till your sides hurt!
16. Best and Most Beautiful Things (2016)
- Cast: Michelle Smith
- IMDb Rating: 7.2/10
This documentary proves that beauty is more than meets the eye. Michelle is what you may call the self-proclaimed.
Queen of Awesomeness. She demonstrates that the best things in life aren’t always what society expects.
Best and Most Beautiful Things is the perfect blend of inspiration and entertainment.
With a sprinkle of charm, your self-esteem will return like it never left. There’s no denying this film will make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside.
17. Wretches & Jabberers (2011)
- Cast: Tracy Thresher, Larry Bissonnette, Pascal Cheng, Harvey Lavoy, LeDerick Horne.
- IMDb Rating: 8.2/10
Hold on to your funny bones, as Larry and Tracy are about to make an entry!
The two hilarious globetrotting wordsmiths set out on an unforgettable adventure in this exciting documentary.
With so much sarcasm, they prove there’s more to communication than meets the ear.
Beneath the glee and merriment, the two men are determined to put a new face on autism.
Larry and Tracy’s journey across the globe proves that autism is no barrier to connecting with others.
Wretches & Jabberers is a delightful joyride among the movies about autism on Netflix that will make you smile.
18. Neurotypical (2013)
- IMDb Rating: 7.5/10
Step into the world of neurotypicals and discover what makes them tick in this eye-opening documentary.
With a pinch of satire and a dollop of irony, Neurotypical takes a severe yet lighthearted look at how society defines and interacts with people with autism spectrum.
This film invites you to question what normal means in today’s world. Don’t hesitate to join this philosophical ride and discover the neurotypical wilderness!
19. Loving Lampposts (2010)
- IMDb Rating: 7.4/10
You never can tell how fascinating autism is until you see it up close.
Loving Lampposts is an illuminating documentary that sheds light on what it means to be autistic.
It is a journey through the minds of individuals on the spectrum.
This gem among movies about autism on Netflix explores their unique perspectives on how they are treated.
The film challenges societal misconceptions and celebrates the beauty of neurodiversity.
This movie is your chance to discover the wonders of autism in all its brilliant glory.
20. How to Dance in Ohio (2015)
- IMDb Rating: 7.6/10
Strap on your dancing shoes and get ready to boogie with a group of extraordinary people in this exciting documentary.
How to Dance in Ohio takes you inside the lives of teenagers with autism as they prepare for an unforgettable prom night.
These young dancers prove that the rhythm of life doesn’t require perfection with their every twirl and spin.
Kick off your inhibitions, wear your dancing shoes, and groove to the beat of acceptance, friendship, and fancy footwork!
