Winning the Special Jury Prize and much critical acclaim at last year’s Tribeca Film Festival, STAND CLEAR OF THE CLOSING DOORS tells the story of Ricky, a boy with Asperger syndrome who becomes lost in New York’s subway system in the days leading up to superstorm Sandy. The movie has been commended by critics and viewers in particular for its artistic insight into Ricky’s life and its sensitive depiction of Ricky’s family’s relationship with him and his condition.
Within the Latino Community autism is rarely discussed. And in mainstream media, movies focusing on autism usually features a predominantly white cast. Stand Clear of the Closing Doors breaks down barriers as it sheds light on a part of the autism community whose story rarely gets told. Not only does Stand Clear of the Closing Doors tell the story from an urban Latino point of view but it combines the reality of the immigrant experience.
However, Stand Clear of the Closing Doors, goes above and beyond being a film about autism. It shows the best, worst and mundane of New York City life and the Mass Transit Authority and how easily one can become lost among thousands of people.
Stand Clear of the Closing Doors is honest and raw, heart breaking and hopeful. You don’t have to be an autism parent or even ridden a New York City train to understand the importance of this film, anyone watching will find it incredibly moving and thought provoking.
Disclaimer: I was provided with a screener for movie review purposes only. All opinions are my own.
I hadn't heard of this- now I'll watch for it!
I take the train all the time with Norrin and losing him is such a fear of mine. There were parts of this film that were so hard to watch. But I'm glad that this film was made because it's a story that needs to be told.
Looking forward to seeing this film. Thanks for sharing what you thought of it.
after watching the film, I look at train rides totally differently. I walked out heavy hearted bc the sad reality is that people just dont care anymore.