The documentary "How the Titanic became my lifeboat" is based on a true story about an Icelandic boy called Brynjar Karl and how his fascination with the Titanic became his lifeline to independence. Brynjar’s story began with an insatiable desire to escape the limitations of autism and become a part of the expressive, vibrant world around him. His fascination with Titanic pointed the way, his untapped talents set wheels in motion. While there is no cure for autism, there are ways to challenge it. The film explores those possibilities with Brynjar and other young people who share their experiences being on the autism spectrum and how their talent elevated them. Brynjar has become an important advocate for young people on the autism spectrum calling after acceptance and inclusion in the school systems and workplaces for people on the spectrum.

Jurors' comments: How the Titanic became my lifeboat is a heart tugging cinematic masterpiece that will have you enlightened in the world of autism. Tell me, do you know what autism REALLY is? I didn't, until I watched this documentary. My own ignorance to such a complex and prevalent topic opened a new informed vision on how I see and view my autistic peers.

This documentary follows the real life story of Brynjar Karl. At the age of three he was diagnosed with autism. Knowing he was different from others, it was only until he found his "x-factor" or talent of building Legos that he was seen by others and to himself as a true extraordinary person. The addition of statistics and professionals to explain such convoluted stories helps make the documentary and stories more understandable and credible.

The camera quality is impeccable. The closeups of the characters allows a personal contact with the individual that you usually don't get to see in a film. Brynjar Karl's fashion throughout the documentary is very young, hip and new. The different settings such as the beach with the beautiful water and the rocks, and the green, flower covered mountains, makes me want to move to Iceland! The background music is great in the scenes that have melancholy context, however in scenes of normal conversation and such the music is sometimes unsuitable. Brynjar Karl's story is very inspiring. His journey, as relayed in his own words, is very authentic and thoughtful. Bjarney Ludviksdottir directs this film in a way that is thought provoking, fun, and meaningful.

From the start the message of the film is projected as being unique and finding what your "x-factor" is to get out of your fog that might be your disability, your health, or life's problems in general. I learned what autism really is. Autism means something different to everyone, even those with autism. As Brynjar Karl explains "no two fingerprints are the same" and no two cases of autism are either. I learned that, from my lack of knowledge I have been ignorant to the many debunked stereotypes explained in this documentary.

My favorite part of the documentary is when Brynjar Karl finds out that his Titanic LEGO replica had been dismantled during transit. He then explains to his mom what she has always told him about never giving up and prevailing, even through the tough times. It is a very heartwarming scene that inspired me greatly. Brynjar Karl is now recognized for being the maker of the world's largest LEGO Titanic replica. We learn in this film how the making of his Titanic model changed his life forever and he even became a TED X speaker!

I give this film 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. There is so much informational content that both young and older will benefit from watching this, from understanding this story and the stories of others and will learn to see past the disability and inabilities, and focus on their abilities. Reviewed by Ashleigh C., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic