ASPERGER’S ARE US Invites You to Meet the First Comedy Troupe of Openly Autistic People

ASPERGER’S ARE US is a coming-of-age documentary following Noah, New Michael, Jack and Ethan best friends who were all diagnosed with asperger’s as they prepare for their last comedy show as “Asperger’s Are Us”. Director Alex Lehman discusses how and why the boys formed the comedy troupe ASPERGER’S ARE US and how they each relate to the diagnosis. Lehman also shares a clip from the film and gives insight into how the film could provide hope to families with members living with asperger’s in this SXSW edition of BYOD hosted by Ondi Timoner.

Guest Bio

For the members of the comedy troupe “Asperger’s Are Us,” it’s easier to associate with a faceless audience than with their own families. No matter who the crowd, best friends Noah, New Michael, Jack and Ethan have one simple mantra: “We would much rather the audience appreciate us as comedians than people who have overcome adversity.” In this coming-of-age heartfelt documentary, this band of brothers finds themselves at a crossroad. With real life pulling them apart, they decide to plan one ambitious farewell show before they all go their separate ways. People with Asperger’s don’t deal well with uncertainty, and this is the most uncertain time in their lives.

Alex Lehmann is a cinematographer and first time director. His credits range from political docs to indie dramas to horror comedies involving 3D man-eating fish. He has shot theatrically distributed films for The Weinstein Company, Disney, and Roadside Attractions. Alex plans to direct more comedies, stating, “I may not be a funny person but I know a few.”