/40 min. / Documentary
/2004 / USA

Autism Is A World is a documentary about Sue Rubin, who is autistic. For 26 years, she has been on an extraordinary journey. Her unusual behavior led to a diagnosis of autism when she was four. Until age 13, she was believed to be mentally retarded. But then a new communication technique gave Sue the ability to connect with the world. Now, a junior in college with a top IQ, she is a tireless disability-rights activist, and an articulate guide in to a complex disorder.

Written by Sue Rubin and narrated by Julianna Margulies, Autism Is A World is a rare and compelling journey into Sue's mind, her daily world, and her struggle with autism.

Sue says she is sometimes her own worst nightmare. In this extraordinary film, Sue guides the audience through all that is special and usual about her life, providing an unflinching look at the world of autism.

Autism Is A World combines Sue’s courageous writing with a sensitive, dramatic reading by Margulies. Brought to life through Gerardine Wurzburg’s powerful filmmaking, this film offers a view of autism as it has rarely been seen--from the inside out.

Autism Is A World is a co-production by State of the Art, Inc. and CNN Productions.

Gerardine Wurzburg - producer / director

Gerardine is an Academy Award® winning (1993) and 2005 Academy nominated documentary Producer and Director who founded her production company State of the Art, Inc. Over the last twenty years, she has produced and directed documentaries about current topics and trends in contemporary history, social justice, education and health. Her most recent television production President, Kennedy Has Been Shot, aired on CNN domestic and international as part of CNN Presents. Her films have been released theatrically and broadcast both nationally on HBO, PBS, and ABC, and internationally as well as being distributed to extensive non-broadcast audiences. Her work represents a commitment to use media to encourage dialogue and social change. In addition to the many awards she has received over the years, she is the recipient of the 1992 Academy Award® for her film, Educating Peter, and the Japan Prize.