Autism Today Foundation

An Open Door

Documentary Film

About The Film:

Synopsis:

“An Open Door” is an internationally acclaimed documentary that celebrates the remarkable life and contributions of Dr. Temple Grandin. Known for her advocacy for the humane treatment of livestock, autism rights, and inclusive neurodiversity, Dr. Grandin’s unique insights, stemming from her personal experiences with autism and visual thinking, have made significant impacts across various fields. The film features interviews with Dr. Grandin, her colleagues, industry professionals, and those she has influenced, highlighting her groundbreaking work, the lessons she imparts, and her enduring legacy. Directed by award-winning filmmaker John Barnhardt, this documentary is presented by the Colorado State University College of Agricultural Sciences.

CAS Strategic Plan Alignment:

✵ Cultivating and Growing an Inclusive, Respectful, and Equitable Community:

Dr. Temple Grandin’s advocacy for autism rights and inclusive neurodiversity resonates strongly with CAS’s commitment to inclusive excellence. The film’s emphasis on valuing diverse perspectives and leveraging Dr. Grandin’s unique insights aligns with CAS’s mission to create a welcoming environment where all voices contribute to the pursuit of excellence in addressing key agricultural challenges.

 

✵ Convening and Supporting Critical Conversations to Address Wicked Problems:

Dr. Grandin’s work in advocating for the humane treatment of livestock and her innovative approaches to solving complex issues in agriculture reflect CAS’s dedication to being a trusted partner in addressing public interests through high-quality research, teaching, and service. The documentary showcases Dr. Grandin’s ability to engage in and promote respectful, informed debates, which is at the core of CAS’s goal to facilitate critical conversations at the intersection of agriculture, natural resources, and human systems.

✵ Promoting Agricultural Literacy with Awareness, Knowledge, Discovery, and Decision-Making:

The documentary’s portrayal of Dr. Grandin’s efforts to enhance public understanding of livestock management and autism highlights CAS’s objective to build community knowledge and trust in agriculture. By advocating for transparency and providing unbiased information, “An Open Door” supports CAS’s mission to equip producers, consumers, and policymakers with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions.

Awards

An Open Door’ has been recognized at prestigious film festivals worldwide.

🏆 San Diego Movie Awards (CA):Best Feature Film & Best Original

🏆 Manhattanhenge Film Awards (CA): Best Documentary Film

🏆 ScoreBeaufort International Film Festival (SC): Best Feature Documentary

🏆 Chicago Filmmaker Awards (IL): Best Feature Documentary & Best Documentary Director

🏆 Spotlight Documentary Film Awards (GA): Best Documentary

🏆Multi Dimension Independent Film Festival (England): Best Documentary

🏆 Beyond Hollywood International Film Festival (CA): Best Feature Documentary

🏆 Detroit Independent Film Festival (MI): Best Feature Documentary, Best Cinematographer, Best Composer

🏆 Pikes Peak docuFEST (CO): Best Documentary

🏆 WorldFest-Houston International Film Festival (TX): Best Documentary

🏆 Cannes World Film Festival (France): Best Biographical Feature Film

🏆 Red Rose Film Festival (PA): Best Documentary

🏆 Carpe Diem (Spain): Best Documentary

🏆 WRPN Women’s International Film Festival (DE): Best Documentary

🏆 Los Angeles Independent Film Festival (CA): Best Documentary Feature Film

🏆 Dubai International Cine Carnival (Dubai): 5 Awards – Best Documentary Film, Film on Women, Educational Film, Women’s Films, Films on Disability Issue

Media Links

Scroll to Top

Dr. Daniels, National Autism Coordinator at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, directs the NIH’s Office of National Autism Coordination and serves as Executive Secretary of the Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee.

Pranjali Kharmode, VP of Autism Today Foundation, brings 14 years of experience in pediatric neurophysiotherapy and women’s health. She’s known for her holistic approach and holistic therapy programs in Edmonton.