Rain Man

Barry Levinson's 1988 film follows Charlie, who learns his father's estate has gone to his autistic older brother. He takes him out of the institution and drives him across the country. At first his motive is entirely money. The film follows the road movie shape; the narrative gives Charlie's change slowly and does not try to change Raymond. Dustin Hoffman and Tom Cruise lead. The film won the Academy Award for best picture. Raymond's portrayal shaped public perception of autism for a long time and has been criticised for that. Who it's for: those who like character drama and road movies. Who it's not for: viewers seeking a realistic representation of autism; the film generalises a very particular case.