One of the best joys of the Sundance Film Festival every year is that a few films pop out of the pack that will likely make a mainstream mark. Fox Searchlight made the wise choice to snatch up Max Mayer's "ADAM", a beautifully whimsical film about a young man Adam (Hugh Dancy) who meets a young woman Beth (Rose Byrne) after she moves in a few floors above. After a couple of unusual encounters, Beth finds herself falling in love but confused with Adam's behavior. Adam confesses that he has Asperger Syndrome, which is an autism spectrum disorder, and the real life challenges of a relationship take on a whole new experience.
The film could have gone the route of a sappy, tele-drama, but it doesn't. In fact it's smart, warm, funny, and deals with the conflict in a fair way, even when conflicts get dark. If you like Hallmark movies, you adore this film, if you hate them, I promise you'll be hooked and enjoy it. It plays like a modern day "Say Anything" and fans of that film will likely be pleased with the upgrades.
It should be noted that Peter Gallagher and Amy Irving round out the cast as Beth's parents and are both wonderful to watch. Frankie Faison also plays Harlen, Adam's best friend, as a wise advisor and father figure to Adam when he most need support.
If you're not familiar with Autism Spectrum Disorders, it's time to learn. The statistics are striking and require massive research. Every year the Walk for Autism raises money to support. I volunteered last year in Los Angeles and had a great time. It was one day of work and we raised millions at the Rose Bowl. If you have a chance, check into your local chapter, drop some cash or volunteer, and if you don't know why it's so important go here and learn. It'll make watching Adam, even more enjoyable.
Ok, here' the trailer...
