The A Word

The A Word is a compelling, insightful, and heartwarming drama series developed by the acclaimed production company, Keshet International, in 2016. Set against the idyllic backdrop of the Lake District in England, this television gem travels into the heart of a bustling family who finds their world turned upside down by a diagnosis.

While at its core, the series centers on Joe Hughes, a pre-teen boy diagnosed with autism, The A Word delves deeply into the rich tapestry of every character's life. The show strikes a delicate balance, simultaneously managing to explore the idiosyncrasies, trials, and tribulations of Joe's condition while never allowing it to eclipse the other unique, multifaceted lives within the ensemble of characters central to the narrative.

At the heart of The A Word is the Hughes family. Joe is our central figure, a young, vibrant, music-loving boy with an autism diagnosis, brilliantly played by the gifted Max Vento. Joe is not defined by his condition, rather, the audience see him as a child first, with his autism as a part of him that is neither negated nor overly emphasized. His parents Paul and Alison, portrayed by Lee Ingleby and Morven Christie, grapple to come to terms with the diagnosis and what it means for their son and their family as a unit.

Paul is a well-meaning, somewhat laid-back father who runs the family brewery. His struggles become more poignant as he tries to strike a balance between accepting Joe's autism and dealing with his own denial. Alison, on the other hand, is a force to be reckoned with. Her tenacity and determination at times border on obsession as she navigates the minefield of services, support, and the stigma associated with her son's diagnosis.

The show also features an impressive surrounding cast, including Joe's teenage sister Rebecca, his grandfather Maurice, his uncle Eddie, and Eddie's estranged wife Nicola. Each of these characters don't just contribute towards enriching the dynamics of the Hughes family, but also are embroiled in their own individual, intricate plotlines. The narrative weaves together the challenges they face and their reactions to Joe's diagnosis, shedding light on the ripple effect a diagnosis of autism can have on a family unit.

The series shines a light on the realities of living with autism spectrum disorder, making for a powerful, fully-realized take on a subject not typically explored. But The A Word refuses to be boxed into a narrow narrative centered solely on autism. Instead, it uses the premise as a launchpad to explore other complex themes such as fidelity, dementia, insecurity, family relationships, unrequited love, and the struggle to fit in.

The A Word also takes a piercing look at how society more broadly responds to difference and divergence from the norm. The show searingly dissects the stigma, lack of awareness, and understanding surrounding autism and the myriad misconceptions that come with it.

Not merely a drama, the show is punctuated by perfectly timed comedic elements, providing much-needed levity. Noteworthy is that these moments of humor never feel forced or inappropriate, rather they lends a sense of authenticity to the characters and their interactions.

The A Word's examination of autism sets it apart from many television shows, which often tend to stereotype or simplify such conditions. The series provides a genuine portrayal that is deeply moving and insightful. The writers do not shy away from showing the many facets of autism and how it permeates the routines and interactions of Joe's life.

The A Word is an insightful, moving exploration of family, communication, and love under the lens of autism. Rather than portraying autism as simply a challenge, the show offers a broader perspective, one where there's room for acceptance, understanding, and growth. The series is notable for its heartfelt performances, astute writing, and thoughtful embrace of a topic that has been often misunderstood or overlooked in the media landscape. It's a must-watch for those seeking out a poignant, character-driven drama with depth and authenticity.