Ezra Enlightens and Educates on Deferred Dreams and Autism

Did you know that one of out of every 88 children in the U.S. are estimated to be on the autistic spectrum or the term autism (from the Greek autos, meaning “self”) was coined in 1911 by Swiss psychiatrist Eugen Bleuler, who used it to describe withdrawal into one’s inner world?

My introduction to their world came from being a cast member in the 1st National Tour of The Who’s Tommy and again through Dustin Hoffman’s character in Rainman.  People diagnosed with this unique sensibility are not ignorant, but are extremely bright and detailed oriented. Yet, their condition can sometimes present unique challenges of not being touched, sensitivity to light and sound or having metal cutlery touch their teeth.

Directed by Tony Goldwyn, Ezra follows a stand-up comic Max Bernal (Bobby Cannavale) living with his father (Robert De Niro), while struggling to co-parent his autistic son Ezra (introducing William Fitzgerald) with his ex-wife (Rose Byrne). When forced to confront difficult decisions about their son’s future, Max and Ezra embark on a cross-country road trip that has a transcendent impact on both their lives.

This film is vastly different and impressionable for a variety of reasons.  To my knowledge, this is one of  the rare times someone with the actual disability is featured in a leading role in film.  Yes, we have seen some in the past, but none like Fitzgerald. William A. Fitzgerald is a bright star on the horizon.  His comedic sensibility coupled with the innate ability to tap into the Ezra’s rawness is beautiful to behold. More than anything, witnessing this character have a full circle journey transforming his maturity levels emotionally warmed my soul.

Bobby Cannavale as a Lenny Bruce-ish type character, slightly on the spectrum himself, will break your heart. Robert DeNiro is massively understated and empathetic as Cannavale’s Dad.  It was refreshing to see a softer side breaking out the characterizations we have become accustomed to from his cinematic endeavors.  I really dug it.  Rose Byrne, Rainn Wilson, Tony Goldwyn, Whoopi Goldberg and Vera Farmiga are all absolutely spectacular in an ensemble cast where each actor hits every note with precision and gusto.

Ezra is the type of film that will be an education for some, a cinematic revelation for others and a reminder that autism is not just a term, but a condition where educators, doctors, parents and children need a shift and push in the right direction of understanding and acceptance – while never giving up on a people you love and dreams no matter what it may ultimately cost you in the end.