Benjamin Giroux, a 10-year-old autistic boy from New York, wrote a poem called "I Am Odd" for a school project. The poem went viral and It inspired this song using Ben's lyrics. A talented young 2D animator, Rory Russell, was approached to tell Ben's story in a simple animated music video to help raise autism awareness.

Juror comments: I love this film! Watching this completely made my day! It is so positive and uplifting.

This student animated short is fantastic. The topic, inspired by a poem that went viral was written by a 10-year-old autistic boy, and is inspiring! The music that accompanies it is upbeat and celebratory.

The animation starts out as illustrated black and white line drawings. As the boy is accepted more, he takes on color, as do his colleagues. Although the animation is not full range, with most still images of people whose mouths are the only moving parts, it doesn’t seem to matter. It is so full of life!

The message this film portrays is how autistic people are an important part of our universe. Celebrate them.

I give I Am Odd 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. Reviewed by Julie S., KIDS FIRST!