Adam, Max Mayer

Adam delivers the coming-of-age story of its eponymous hero, a 29-year-old electrical engineer with Asperger's syndrome. Able to function only with the highly structured boundaries lovingly established by his now-deceased father, Adam's move towards full independence is propelled by his romantic engagement with his new neighbor, a very kind and attractive pre-school teacher curious enough, patient enough, and eventually, wise enough to help him develop necessary social skills and then let him go.

Unlike many films of its ilk, Adam avoids easy sentimentality. This is largely due to Hugh Dancy's portrayal of Adam, a performance that feels emotionally honest; I came away with greater understanding, not pity. The most awkward spots appear when the narrative stops so one character or another can explain Asperger's to another character--and to its audience. I wonder how necessary these pedagogical moments are, however, since most cinema-goers attracted to such a quiet indy film would be familiar with--and most likely sympathetic to--the syndrome.

Recommend.