Here is a review of a documentary about a punk band. OK, there are lots of punk bands, and no, I do not usually listen to punk music. What caught my eye about this review (or my ear) is that this band is composed of two individuals with autism and two individuals with down syndrome. How cool is that? Rock on guys and much success with your musical journey.
The Punk Syndrome – review
This attractive Finnish film brings to mind the Finnish director Aki Kaurismäki's Leningrad Cowboys Go America, a zany comedy about a terrible Finnish rock group touring the States. The difference, however, is that Kärkkäinen and Passi's film is a documentary about a real punkquartet called Pertti Kurikka's Name Day, a genuine punk quartet made up of the autistic duo of Pertti Kurikka (lead guitar) and Karl Aalto (singer), and the Down's syndrome duo of Sami Helle (bass) and Toni Välitalo (drums). Sami and Toni are younger and more cheerful than Pertti and Karl, whose songs are often angry and aggressive (eg I Need a Little Respect and Dignity in My Life; I Hate the World). But all four have a suitable punk wildness
The film presents them in warm domestic settings, on tour, making their first overseas visit (including an amusing gig on Hamburg's Reeperbahn), and cutting their first DVD. Nobody patronises them or laughs behind their backs, and they rightly take their art seriously. A very likable, relaxed film.
Be gentle.
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Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and autism are both general terms for a group of complex disorders of brain development. These disorders are characterized, in varying degrees, by difficulties in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication and repetitive behaviors. They include autistic disorder, Rett syndrome, childhood disintegrative disorder, pervasive developmental disorder-not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS) and Asperger syndrome. ASD can be associated with intellectual disability, difficulties in motor coordination and attention and physical health issues such as sleep and gastrointestinal disturbances. Some persons with ASD excel in visual skills, music, math and art.
Autism statistics from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) identify around 1 in 88 American children as on the autism spectrum–a ten-fold increase in prevalence in 40 years. Careful research shows that this increase is only partly explained by improved diagnosis and awareness. Studies also show that autism is three to four times more common among boys than girls. An estimated 1 out of 54 boys and 1 in 252 girls are diagnosed with autism in the United States.
Each individual with autism is unique. Many of those on the autism spectrum have exceptional abilities in visual skills, music and academic skills. About 40 percent have average to above average intellectual abilities. Indeed, many persons on the spectrum take deserved pride in their distinctive abilities and “atypical” ways of viewing the world. Others with autism have significant disability and are unable to live independently. About 25 percent of individuals with ASD are nonverbal but can learn to communicate using other means. Autism Speaks’ mission is to improve the lives of all those on the autism spectrum. For some, this means the development and delivery of more effective treatments that can address significant challenges in communication and physical health. For others, it means increasing acceptance, respect and support.