Temple Grandin is a biographical television film based on a true life story, released as an HBO production in 2010. Directed by Mick Jackson, the production focuses on the life and professional achievements of Temple Grandin, a woman with autism.
The film tells the journey of Temple Grandin, who, despite experiencing speech difficulties in childhood and struggling with social interactions, became an internationally recognized scientist in the fields of animal behavior and livestock. While covering Grandin's personal and academic achievements, the film also highlights her struggle against societal prejudices and obstacles.
Temple Grandin Official Trailer (YouTube)
Plot
The film Temple Grandin tells the life story of Temple Grandin, an individual with autism. The film details Grandin's developmental difficulties, social adjustment problems, and communication challenges from her childhood. Grandin, who did not start speaking until the age of four, experienced difficulties in social relationships, especially during her high school years. With the support of her mother and some teachers, she made progress in her education. Her interest in animals was reinforced by the time she spent on her aunt and uncle's farm. This interest led her to academic studies in animal science. While her competence in mechanical subjects during her university education attracted attention, she continued to struggle with social difficulties. Grandin is known for the "hug machine" device she developed to reduce stress in autistic individuals and for her designs that ensured more humane conditions for animals in slaughterhouses. The film reflects Grandin's scientific contributions and her impact on public awareness about autism.
From the film (photo:IMDb)
Theme
The theme of the film Temple Grandin is that neurodevelopmental differences do not hinder an individual's professional and scientific contributions, and that with appropriate education and environmental support, they can lead to functional success. The film demonstrates that an individual diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, despite difficulties in communication and social interaction, can achieve effective professional results through innovative approaches developed in animal science and animal welfare. The film also emphasizes that solutions developed by individuals for their own needs can become applicable methods for autistic individuals.
From the film (IMDb)
Cast and Characters
- Claire Danes - Temple Grandin
- Julia Ormond - Eustacia
- David Strathairn - Dr. Carlock
- Catherine O'Hara - Aunt Ann
- Stephanie Faracy - Betty Goscowitz
- Barry Tubb - Randy
- Melissa Farman - Alice
- Steve Shearer - Jeff Brown
- Richard Dillard - Don Micheals
- Jenna Elizabeth Hughes - Four-Year-Old Temple
- Michael Crabtree - Uncle Mike
- Charles Baker - Billy
- David Born - Shanklin
- Rutherford Cravens - Feedlot Security Guard
- Matthew Posey - Ted Gilbert
- Toby Metcalf - Stacey
- Cyndi Williams - Abattoir Clerk
- Steve Uzzell - Psychologist
From the film (IMDb)
Production Stage
The film Temple Grandin was produced as a co-production of HBO Films, Ruby Films, and Gerson Saines Productions. Mick Jackson directed the production, and the screenplay was written by Temple Grandin, Margaret Scariano, and Christopher Monger. The film was shot in the United States, with some of the filming taking place in Georgetown, Texas. The production runs for 1 hour and 47 minutes, is in color format, and features a Dolby Digital sound system. The film was released on February 6, 2010, and is classified as a biographical drama made for television. Since the film was a TV movie, it was not released in cinemas and therefore did not generate traditional box office revenue.
From the film (IMDb)
Awards and Nominations
The television film "Temple Grandin" has won numerous awards and nominations. The film won a total of 35 awards and was nominated 37 times.
Among its significant awards are seven Primetime Emmy Awards. These Emmy awards include:
- Outstanding Television Movie
- Outstanding Lead Actress in a Miniseries or a Movie (Claire Danes)
- Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Miniseries or a Movie (David Strathairn)
- Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Miniseries or a Movie (Julia Ormond)
- Outstanding Directing for a Miniseries, Movie or a Dramatic Special (Mick Jackson)
The film also earned Claire Danes the "Best Actress – Miniseries or Television Film" award at the Golden Globe Awards.
