Raymond's talent lies in his ability to calculate mathematical equations
very quickly and accurately in his head, but he has few people skills and
is very uncomfortable in new environments (Vogel, 1998). The story unfolds
as the tale of the journey the two brother's share, and the path of
discovery they embark on together as they get to know each other. Raymond
teaches Charley how he can just accept people as they are, and that there
are certain things in life you simply can't change.
Charley eventually returns Raymond to the institution realizing he needs
greater personal care that Charley will be able to give him during his
life, but is enriched by the experience of getting to know his brother and
the viewer is left with the impression that the two have created a long
Raymond is viewed by others as he is†a savant capable of incredible tasks
but also as an outcast, someone who doesn't know how to engage in normal
conversations or social interactions with others. People are ordinarily
uncomfortable around someone with autism or any other type of mental
disorder. They are unsure of how to act and how to react to the
individuals mannerisms. Raymond seems oblivious of anyone's discomfort.
Some accept him as he is, having the innocence of a child one might say.
Raymond doesn't seem to view himself as anything other than ordinary, it is
hard to say whether or not he would have any other view. The movie does
give the impression however that it is important to him that he have a
loving relationship with his brother, or at least perhaps that he has some
affectionate feelings for his brother. He seems at least in part to
recognize that his actions cause reactions in some way.
The films portrayal of the status of an individual with autism is fairly
accurate. For all intents and purposes people with autism are generally
...