ANNA - SHORT FILM

Every map perfectly aligned, every succulent carefully watered, and every book systematically shelved. Anna wakes in her room; her safe haven. Anna is a young woman on the Autism Spectrum, who relishes in living a life of rigorous routine. When unplanned variables affect this routine and an unfamiliar person claims Anna’s seat on the bus, her day is sent spiraling out of her control.

 

This is Harriett Maire and Phoebe Jeurissen’s final film project at AUT University. ANNA is a story that explores the disconcerting effect Autism can have on an individual’s day. Anna’s actions and interactions imply that she processes things differently from other people, yet we do not pity her.

 

Maire and Jeurissen are delighted to share Anna’s story in the hope that it will encourage viewers towards a sensitive, honest and fresh understanding of the Autism condition, a disorder largely under-represented on our screens.

 

Ensuring an authentic representation was integral of the film process. Director Maire worked closely with actress Geneva Norman to ensure Anna was carefully portrayed yet subtly engaging. During the production process, all cast and crew worked with an understanding of the fragility and empathy required to do this character and story justice.

 

Anna is a multi-faceted individual, not a victim of her disorder.