Michelle is an endlessly curious young woman, absorbed with her obsessions and powerfully motivated to find her place in the world. But Michelle faces challenges: She is legally blind and high-functioning on the autism spectrum. She is also the last person to be tempered by these supposed “limitations,” choosing instead to reach beyond the life many have assumed for her and finding commonality, self-discovery, empowerment, and even love within an unexpected fringe community. Through the use of incisive cinematography, an original score, and a compelling nonlinear structure, this debut feature documentary never condescends to its subject as it explores Michelle’s complicated family past, the restless present, and her uncertain future, effectively mirroring many of her unique perceptions with empathy and compassion. Her inspired journey connects the audience to a brave and precocious spirit living beyond her presumptive disabilities and celebrates the determination of outcasts everywhere to live authentic lives.
Guests in attendance 10/8 & 10/10: Ariana Garfinkel (producer),
Michelle Smith (subject)
In association with No Bully