Wretches and Jabberers... A Review and Thoughts

I came across the documentary Wretches and Jabberers while looking up resources on autism. As soon as I saw it, my interest was peaked. I immediately went to find it so I could watch it. The documentary is about two grown men with autism and their journey to different countries to meet with other individuals that have autism. Larry Bissonnette and Tracy Thresher are advocates for autism. They grew up in institutions and not being understood. Larry started learning art and used this as an expression, he still makes art, which is on display and for sell. A few years later he learned to type. Tracy learned to type when he was 23. Now both men communicate through typing and with the help of their assistants that have worked with them since the 90's. In the film, they communicate with other individuals who have learned to type as well. They are joining together and spreading the message that they are just like everyone else and communicate as well.

I thought this was very well done. I have seen documentaries on special needs throughout the years, since it is my field. This one is one that I believe will stay with me forever. It was moving, awe-inspiring, and gives hope. In my opinion, they did very well setting out with a specific intention and reaching that goal. This shows what really is going on, it doesn't try to sugarcoat anything, it shows the frustration these men still deal with. It also does not try to make you feel sorry for them either. It wants to get the message across that they are people like everyone else and they have things to communicate just as we all do. They just have different ways to communicate and they need to be given the chance to do so. In all, it is very well done and gets the message across very well. This is a film that I would highly suggest anyone interested in special needs and autism to see. In fact, I would suggest this film to anyone.

I am use to watching documentaries and hearing stories and people around me going "aw" and all that. I admit I have been right there with them, thinking how sad. Yes, some of the situations are sad, but should we take the stance of "feeling sorry" for the people in the films? I know when something happens to me that may cause people to feel sorry for me, I don't want pity, I want support, and if need be help. I don't come out and ask for it, but when it happens it's appreciated. This is how I started looking at this, they are people just like us, who are we to pity them? Instead, why not take action? They need advocates, and if possible, they need people who can enable them to become advocates for themselves. Watching Wretches and Jabberers and seeing four people that have autism sit down and hold a conversation through typing, something they would not be able to do if they hadn't learned typing, shows what is possible. It is like releasing something that has been trapped inside. They have thoughts and feelings that need to be communicated. So, instead of sitting back and going "aw", maybe it's time to go "ah ha!" and go out to help make a difference!