What makes the web-series ‘As We See It’ so special

Does it become any less challenging? No, not really. It remains a significant burden, but it’s also a unique gift. This conversation unfolds in the new eight-part web series, As We See It, where the father of a young adult with autism engages in dialogue with a long-time observer of their shared challenges.

Jack, a twenty-something individual with autism portrayed by Rick Glassman, expresses himself without filters, unfamiliar with societal niceties. In a world quick to judge, Jack is often dismissed as “weird” or “eccentric.” However, his distinctiveness is a result of his neurological makeup rather than any inherent peculiarity. Residing in Los Angeles with two flatmates facing their own sensory challenges, Jack, Harrison (played by Albert Rutecki), and Violet (played by Sue Ann Pien) navigate the complexities of daily life.

As We See It, crafted by TV veteran Jason Katims, offers a refreshing take on the coming-of-age narrative. The series showcases its characters learning to live independently with the assistance of their life coach, Mandy (played by Sosie Bacon). Notably, all three lead actors are on the autism spectrum, providing an authentic portrayal rather than neurotypical individuals portraying those with special needs.

The casting choice is cause for celebration. Mental health issues often risk being reduced to mere “issues” in films, potentially eliciting sympathy or turning caregivers into overly noble figures. As the series unfolds, it becomes evident that individuals with mental health challenges are portrayed as multifaceted individuals with interests, quirks, and flaws.

The representation of people with special needs in popular culture has historically been lacking. Once introduced into scripts, neurodivergent characters face the risk of becoming mere props, serving to make neurotypical audiences feel virtuous. Breaking away from such stereotypes is crucial, and recent efforts, such as the Malayalam film Bhoothakaalam, demonstrate a nuanced approach to depicting characters with mental health conditions.

Hindi cinema, with its history of callous portrayals and insensitive jokes about neurological challenges, is gradually witnessing more authentic portrayals. Ahaan, a character with Down syndrome in the film of the same name, played by Abuli Mamaji, reflects a positive shift towards accurate representation and a focus on their aspirations.

However, there are instances, like the character Rinku in Atrangi Re, where schizophrenia is portrayed with questionable accuracy and sensitivity. Balancing sentiment with authenticity becomes essential in portraying characters dealing with mental health challenges. It’s not just about representation anymore; it’s about capturing the authenticity of life’s ups and downs. The eternal struggle between burden and gift persists, reflecting the complexities of life.