Directed by Petter Næss and written by Ron Bass, the 2005 film "Mozart and the Whale" is a dram and comedy about the relationship between two geniuses with Asperger's syndrome (a form of autism). The movie tells the story of Donald's life being turned upside down when Isabelle, a member of an autism support group, enters his life. Josh Hartnett plays Donald Morton and Radha Mitchell plays Isabelle Sorenson. The film has been frequently shown at autistic conferences and support group meetings due to its depiction of Asperger's Syndrome and other autism spectrum conditions. According to the real person nicknamed "The Whale" in the film, the cast and production team spent time with Asperger's and autistic adults. In this way, Josh Hartnett and Radha Mitchell remarkably captured the spirit of both him and his wife when they met.

Plot

Mozart and the Whale is a dramatic comedy about two people with Asperger's syndrome whose condition threatens to sabotage their budding romance. Donald is a good-natured but clumsy taxi driver with a passion for birds and a gift for numbers. Donald also likes patterns and routines. Donald's life and heart are turned upside down when beautiful but complicated Isabelle joins the autism support group he leads.

Theme

The film Mozart and the Whale explores the effects of Asperger's syndrome on a love relationship and the efforts of two individuals to form a romantic bond despite the difficulties this condition brings. The film centers on the unique dynamics of the relationship between Donald and Isabelle, who have Asperger's syndrome, a form of autism, and how their personal characteristics (such as Donald's fondness for numbers and routines) affect their relationship.

Cast and Characters

Donald Morton (Josh Hartnett): A good-natured but clumsy taxi driver with Asperger's syndrome. He is characterized by his fondness for birds and his extraordinary talent with numbers. Like many people with Asperger's, he likes patterns and routines.

Isabelle Sorenson (Radha Mitchell): A beautiful but complex character who joins the autism support group that Donald runs. Her arrival turns Donald's life and heart upside down.

Box Office

The estimated budget of the film is $12,000,000. The film grossed $36,006 in the U.S. and Canada and the first screening (April 16, 2006) brought in $19,610. Its worldwide gross was $84,447.