Jerry Rothwell | Documentary | USA, UK | 2020 | 82m

Based on the best-selling book by Naoki Higashida, The Reason I Jump is an immersive film exploring the experiences of nonspeaking autistic people from around the world.

The film blends Higashida's revelatory insights into autism, written when he was just 13, with intimate portraits of five remarkable young people. It opens a window for audiences into an intense and overwhelming, but often joyful, sensory universe.

Moments in the lives of each of the characters are linked by the journey of a young Japanese boy through an epic landscape; narrated passages from Naoki's writing reflect on what his autism means to him and others, how his perception of the world differs, and why he acts in the way he does: the reason he jumps. The film distils these elements into a sensually rich tapestry that leads us to Naoki's core message: not being able to speak does not mean there is nothing to say.

"This is a wondrous work... that enlightens and informs but that is also ravishing to behold." -Leslie Felperin, The Hollywood Reporter

"An inventive, sensuous documentary worthy of its source. This compassionate, creative documentary will open ears and eyes in equal measure. As emotionally piercing as it is beautiful to behold." -Guy Lodge, Variety

Winner: Audience Award, World Documentary - Sundance Film Festival
Winner: Best Documentary - Athens International Film Festival
Winner: Best Documentary - British Independent Film Awards
Winner: Best Documentary - Denver International Film Festival

Cost: $11.29 ($9.99 + tax)
Tickets are valid to start watching within 7 days of purchase. Once you begin, you'll have 5 days to finish watching.

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