Autism Paint2 is a moving story about underdogs who draw you in, make you root for them, and take you through a gamut of emotions and themes: laughter, frustration, risk, hopefulness, pain, disappointment, ironic-humor, anger, wonder, admiration, tension, innocence, sacrifice, and altruism.
This film shows how imperfection, flaws, and adversity can lead to unforeseen creativity, innovation, and determination. This is reflected in the tireless work of a selfless artist whose work is intrinsically tied to helping those with the myriad challenges of autism, and others who have sacrificed their mental health by fighting in unwinnable, intractable, and brutal wars. The documentary also turns the camera on itself, a beautifully unique and resonant feature, in which the director works with imperfect, broken equipment to produce a story that is more interesting to view than any big-budget production. Director David Stagnari manages to make the beautiful yet inanimate art in Autism Paint2 come alive with effectively choreographed editing, music, and imagery. He and Mr. Preis develop a mutualism and chemistry based on trust and working for an important common cause that enables Mr. Preis to tell his story. This is done so effectively not only in words but also in poignant, silent responses, and in unexpected gems in the scenery. There are so many life lessons to be learned from this film; it bears repeated viewing.
Autism Paint2 touches your heart, as was clearly evident at a recent showing at Huntington's Cinema Arts Center: the packed theater audience had tears of sadness and joy and the emotion that comes from seeing something beautiful.