Adam (2009)

Adam is a sensitive, nuanced, and accurate portrayal of a highly intelligent young man named Adam (Hugh Dancy) who has Asperger's syndrome, a form of high-functioning autism that presents itself somewhat differently in every person but essentially indicates a diminished ability to experience, much less recognize and respond to, social and emotional cues such as irony, empathy, and humor. As a parent with Asperger's in the family, I was impressed with and at times deeply moved by Hugh's portrayal of Adam, an astronomy buff and software engineer who at age 29 has the great fortune of meeting a woman sensitive enough to truly perceive his inner value and even to fall in love with him. There is no sex -- and just one mention of "no sex" -- so children as young as 13 to 14 could readily see this movie with any parent who is interested in a story about the authentic desire to be appreciated, held, and loved (with or without handicaps or weaknesses, which are only human). I heartily recommend this movie to anyone who is interested in a poignant (even quasi-tragic) love story -- because love isn't necessarily simple or neat. Don't look for a tidy or traditional happy ending; Adam is more like real life than Hollywood -- and this movie demonstrates how that can be a good thing. 5 stars.