His imagination unlocked an amazing new world.

Join Bud Werner Memorial Library and the Yampa Valley Autism Program for an award-winning film from Academy Award-winning director Roger Ross Williams, based on the New York Times bestselling book by Ross Suskind. Life, Animated is the inspirational story of Owen Suskind, a young man who was unable to speak as a child until he and his family discovered a unique way to communicate by immersing themselves in the world of classic Disney animated films. 

Owen was a thriving three year old who suddenly and inexplicably went silent – and for years after remained unable to connect with other people or to convey his thoughts, feelings or desires. Over time, through repeated viewings of Disney classics like The Little Mermaid and The Lion King, Owen found useful tools to help him to understand complex social cues and to re-connect with the world around him.This emotional coming-of-age story follows Owen as he graduates to adulthood and takes his first steps toward independence.

Life, Animated evocatively interweaves classic Disney sequences with verite scenes from Owen’s life in order to explore how his identification and empathy for characters like Simba, Jafar, and Ariel gave him a means to understand his feelings and allowed him to interpret reality.  Beautiful, original animations offer rich insights into Owen’s fruitful dialogue with the Disney oeuvre as he imagines himself heroically facing adversity as a member in a tribe of sidekicks.

Owen’s story is a moving testament to the many ways in which stories can serve as a means of persevering through the dark times, leading us all toward the light.

This free community screening is sponsored by the Bud Werner Memorial Library and Yampa Valley Autism Program.

Run time: 91 min.