| Temple Grandin | |
|---|---|
&sq=Qlik&lang=&file=File:Templegrandin.jpg) Film poster | |
| Genre | Biographical drama |
| Based on | Emergence by Temple Grandin Margaret Scariano Thinking in Pictures by Temple Grandin |
| Screenplay by |
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| Directed by | Mick Jackson |
| Starring | |
| Music by | Alex Wurman |
| Country of origin | United States |
| Original language | English |
| Production | |
| Executive producers | |
| Producer | Scott Ferguson |
| Cinematography | Ivan Strasburg |
| Editor | Leo Trombetta |
| Running time | 107 minutes |
| Production companies | |
| Original release | |
| Network | HBO |
| Release | February 6, 2010 |
| Infobox instructions (only shown in preview) | |
Temple Grandin is a 2010 American biographical drama television film directed by Mick Jackson and starring Claire Danes as Temple Grandin, an autistic woman whose innovations revolutionized practices for the humane handling of livestock on cattle ranches and slaughterhouses. It is based on Grandin's memoirs Emergence and Thinking in Pictures.
The biopic was inspired by executive producer Emily Gerson Saines, whose personal journey as the mother of an autistic child drove her to bring Grandin's story to life. After learning about Grandin through her mother's recommendation of the book Thinking in Pictures and an article by Oliver Sacks, Gerson Saines found renewed hope and purpose in Grandin's life and achievements. Determined to share this story widely, she secured Grandin’s approval in the late 1990s but faced years of challenges before the project materialized. Initially involving different directors and screenwriters, the film ultimately took shape under Mick Jackson’s direction, with Claire Danes cast as Grandin. Danes immersed herself in the role, studying Grandin’s work and spending time with her to capture her complex persona. Filmed primarily in Texas in 2008, the production aimed for authenticity, even bringing Grandin to observe the final scenes. Gerson Saines credited HBO’s support and her commitment to “get it right” for the film's eventual success in reaching a wide audience.
The film premiered on HBO on February 6, 2010. It received widespread acclaim, with critics praising its heartfelt and authentic portrayal. The film was celebrated for making Temple Grandin’s autism relatable and her unique perspective on livestock psychology both fascinating and emotionally resonant. Claire Danes’ performance was widely lauded for capturing Grandin’s distinctive mannerisms and emotional depth without veering into sentimentality, as well as for portraying her growth with nuance. Critics highlighted the film’s avoidance of clichés, calling it joyous, inspirational, and filled with thoughtful details, from its direction to its evocative score and visuals. Overall, Temple Grandin was described as a deeply moving and meticulously crafted biopic that offered a rare, compelling insight into its subject’s extraordinary life and mind. It also won several awards including five Primetime Emmy Awards, and Golden Globe and Screen Actors Guild prizes for Danes.