Why was a child with autism ejected from ‘Finding Dory’—a film that champions diversity and special needs?
In a rather baffling turn of events, a three-and-a-half-year-old boy with autism was asked to leave a screening of “Finding Dory” simply for being, well, a kid. Emily Johnson and her energetic son, Leo, who reside near Seattle in Renton, Washington, were enjoying their first movie outing together when they were suddenly met with an unexpected ultimatum. The theater manager at Regal Cinemas in Bellevue informed Emily that complaints had been made about Leo’s exuberant behavior—he was moving around and rolling on the floor, Kiro 7 reported.
“I just wish the manager had been a little more understanding. It was Leo’s first movie experience, and we were trying to navigate how to manage his autism in a new environment,” Emily shared with Home Insemination Kit. Anyone who has taken a child to the movies knows that excitement can lead to some animated reactions, and Leo was no exception.
His enthusiasm was palpable, especially since he adores Dory, the lovable fish from “Finding Nemo.” Ironically, this film aims to raise awareness about disabilities. “A bit of patience and understanding could go a long way in fostering awareness about autism and other disabilities,” Emily added.
It seems cruel that a child with a disability was asked to leave because he was a bit too lively. What’s the harm in a kid rolling around? I’ve endured countless movies filled with rude adults glued to their phones, yet a thrilled child is somehow deemed unacceptable? Emily didn’t think Leo was disturbing anyone in the theater, which was only half full, but the manager demanded she control him or leave. Ha! As if a parent can simply flip a switch to make a child sit still.
“Kids with autism are still kids. All children find it hard to sit quietly, and autistic kids might need more exposure to learn what’s appropriate behavior,” Emily explained. Unfortunately, not everyone sees it that way. Some critics online were quick to dismiss Emily’s experience. “Autism isn’t an excuse. Your child can do everything another child can do. It’s what YOU teach them,” one commenter insisted. Really? Suggesting a drive-in movie as an alternative is laughable; they’re practically extinct!
“We are encouraged to take our kids to these settings, only to face embarrassment when our child is asked to leave due to their developmental challenges,” Emily lamented. Thankfully, many others defended Leo and his mom online. “I’m so sorry this happened. I’ve seen loud adults in theaters who don’t get kicked out,” one supporter wrote.
Another individual shared her own struggles, saying, “I want to see Finding Dory too, Leo! I have my own challenges, but I never let them hold me back.”
When paying to see a film that celebrates differences, it seems contradictory to complain about a child’s excitement. “We parents are doing our best to raise wonderful children, no matter their diagnosis,” Emily concluded. So, next time you witness a little one having a blast at a kids’ movie, remember—it’s all about having a good time!
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Summary
A three-year-old boy with autism was removed from a screening of “Finding Dory” for being too animated, highlighting the challenges faced by families with special needs children in public spaces. Despite the film’s message of inclusion, the incident sparked a debate about patience and understanding in society regarding children with disabilities.