The SundanceNOw Doc Club observes Autism Awareness Month by showing three inspiring films that follow the triumphs and hurdles of individuals on the Autism spectrum. These stories show that through art and self expression, untraditional methods, and efforts of entire communities’ individuals with special needs can flourish.

SPECTRUM OF HOPE
Follow the journey of 10 musical theater students, their families, and their teachers as they travel from their NYC special needs school to compete in the Junior Theater Festival in Atlanta, Georgia. A powerful celebration of what can be accomplished through arts education, musical theater, and allowing individuals to grow on their own terms.

BEST KEPT SECRET
Janet Mino has taught her class of young men with autism for four years. When they all graduate in the spring of 2012, they will leave the security of the public school system forever. Take a closer look at the compounded difficulty of special needs individuals within the working-class and impoverished circumstances.

THE HORSE BOY
When two-year-old Rowan was diagnosed with autism, Rupert Isaacson, a writer and former horse trainer, and his wife Kristin Neff, a psychology professor, sought the best possible medical care, but traditional therapies had little effect. Then they discovered that Rowan has a profound affinity for animals—particularly horses—and the family set off on a quest that would change their lives forever.