By: Staff Contributor
“…..things like 'stimulation rocking, spinning, rolling on the floor, flapping'—these' were things I did. I think spinning is good and rolling too. Self-stimulation does seem to eventually calm the nervous system. It can be a way to compensate for not being held. Being held by another person is scary, but rolling or being held by surfaces produces the calming effect that ordinary children get from a hug. I'm autistic, and I need the sensation of being hugged. Now I've developed a machine that I get into and hugs me. I'm different afterwards. I'm more social. Well, I didn't speak until I was four. Now I have a BA and a master's, and I'm working on a doctorate. Please don't shout. Please don't. Most autistic people are very sensitive to sounds and colors. Overstimulation hurts."
This powerful quote, taken directly from the movie Temple Grandin, truly grabbed me. So much so that I decided to watch the entire film, surprised that I hadn’t seen it until now.
Temple Grandin, released in 2010, tells the inspiring true story of Temple Grandin, a woman with autism who became a remarkable figure in the world of animal science. Her innovative approaches fundamentally changed how we think about the humane treatment of livestock. The movie, with Claire Danes delivering a brilliant portrayal of Temple, vividly shows her journey growing up and the unwavering support of her incredible mother.
The film opens in the 1960s, introducing us to young Temple, a remarkably bright child who, however, wasn't speaking and seemed disconnected from her surroundings. In an era when understanding of autism was limited, doctors suggested institutionalization. But her mother, Eustacia Cutler, played with immense strength by Julia Ormond, firmly refused. She recognized a unique spark in her daughter, even if Temple couldn't express herself in conventional ways.
Eustacia was a woman ahead of her time. Instead of succumbing to despair, she fought tirelessly to secure the necessary help for Temple. The movie beautifully illustrates her relentless efforts, from working with doctors and teachers to devising her own methods to help Temple manage sensory overload and develop communication skills. It was truly inspiring to witness.
As the narrative unfolds, we see Temple navigating various educational environments. It wasn't an easy path. She often felt overwhelmed by the sensory input of noise and activity, making it challenging to connect with her peers. Yet, Eustacia remained her steadfast advocate, consistently pushing for inclusion and ensuring that people understood Temple simply perceived the world through a different lens.
A pivotal moment arrives when Temple attends a special school and encounters Dr. Carlock, a perceptive teacher who recognizes her visual thinking abilities and nurtures her burgeoning interest in science. This becomes a significant turning point, allowing Temple to channel her intense focus and unique perspective into academic pursuits.
The film then follows Temple's experiences in college and graduate school, where she continues to face skepticism and misunderstanding. However, her exceptional intellect and groundbreaking ideas, particularly in animal science, gradually earn her the respect she deserves. Her sharp observational skills enable her to understand animal behavior in ways others often overlook, leading to her revolutionary designs for livestock handling facilities that prioritize the animals' well-being and minimize stress.
Throughout this entire journey, her mother, Eustacia, remains her constant anchor. All those early interventions, that unwavering belief in Temple’s potential—they all proved to be the bedrock of her success. The movie poignantly portrays the sacrifices Eustacia made, the societal prejudices she confronted, and the medical misconceptions she challenged, all driven by an enduring love for her daughter.
What profoundly resonated with me while watching Temple Grandin was the sheer bravery and unwavering determination of Eustacia. In a time when autism was so misunderstood and carried such a heavy stigma, she stood firm in her conviction that Temple deserved a fulfilling life, a chance to learn, grow, and contribute her unique talents to the world. Her relentless fight for opportunities and her unwavering belief in Temple’s capabilities were truly inspiring.
The movie doesn't shy away from depicting the hardships they faced. We witness the frustrations, the moments of societal misunderstanding, and the genuine challenges they navigated together. Yet, Eustacia’s inner strength shines brightly. She dedicated herself to understanding Temple’s unique way of processing information, interpreting her behaviors, and becoming her voice in a world that often struggled to listen.
It is abundantly clear that Eustacia’s early support and unwavering belief were absolutely crucial in shaping Temple’s extraordinary achievements. Temple Grandin didn't just survive; she thrived. She became a highly respected scientist, a celebrated author, and a powerful voice advocating for autism awareness. Her story, so compellingly told in this film, serves as a potent reminder of what becomes possible when someone believes in you, especially when that someone is your mother.
Temple Grandin transcends the typical biographical film; it is a deeply moving narrative about the vital importance of understanding, the transformative power of education, and the immeasurable impact of a parent's love. It encourages us to consider the diverse ways individuals perceive the world and underscores the necessity of fostering openness and acceptance.
Having been initially drawn in by those brief clips on TikTok, I am incredibly grateful that I took the time to watch Temple Grandin. It is a story that stays with you long after the credits roll, a powerful testament to the strength of courage, the power of perseverance, and the enduring force of a mother’s unwavering love. If you haven’t yet experienced this remarkable film, I wholeheartedly encourage you to do so. It is a powerful and uplifting story that will undoubtedly leave you with much to contemplate.