What to watch. Featuring Characters with ADHD or Similar Traits

1.“Percy Jackson & The Olympians: The Lightning Thief” (2010)

•Percy Jackson, the protagonist, is depicted with ADHD and dyslexia. His ADHD is framed as a strength that helps him in high-energy situations, connecting it to his demi-god heritage.

2.“The Royal Tenenbaums” (2001)

•This Wes Anderson film features a quirky family of gifted individuals. Some characters exhibit behaviors and challenges that align with ADHD traits, such as impulsivity and difficulty with focus.

3.“Temple Grandin” (2010)

•Although this biographical film primarily focuses on autism, Temple Grandin’s innovative thinking and high energy can resonate with ADHD experiences.

4.“The Secret Life of Walter Mitty” (2013)

•Walter Mitty often escapes into daydreams, which can reflect inattentive ADHD traits. The movie highlights how imagination and action can coexist.

5.“Silver Linings Playbook” (2012)

•While this film focuses on mental health broadly, the impulsive and high-energy behavior of Pat Solitano offers parallels to ADHD characteristics.

6.“Matilda” (1996)

•Matilda’s brilliance, high energy, and unconventional way of seeing the world can align with traits associated with ADHD, particularly in gifted children.

7.“Finding Dory” (2016)

•Dory’s struggles with memory and focus, paired with her ability to adapt and succeed in challenging situations, make her relatable to individuals with ADHD.

8.“Billy Madison” (1995)

•The protagonist’s impulsive and hyperactive behaviors provide a comedic but exaggerated portrayal of traits often associated with ADHD.

9.“Akeelah and the Bee” (2006)

•Akeelah’s journey as a gifted student balancing her focus and high energy while competing in spelling bees can resonate with ADHD experiences.

10.“Inside Out” (2015)

•While the film doesn’t directly address ADHD, its exploration of emotions and how they influence attention and focus offers valuable insights for those navigating ADHD.

Documentaries and Educational Films

1.“ADD & Loving It?!” (2009)

•A humorous and informative documentary that explores adult ADHD through interviews and expert insights.

2.“The Disruptors” (2021)

•This documentary offers a deep dive into the lives of individuals with ADHD, showcasing their struggles and triumphs.

3.“I Am Greta” (2020)

•A documentary about Greta Thunberg, the climate activist who has spoken openly about living with neurodivergence, including ADHD.

4.“Mississippi Queen” (2012)

•A documentary that touches on ADHD within the context of familial relationships and societal perceptions.

Animated Films with ADHD Resonance

1.“The Incredibles” (2004)

•Dash, the energetic and impulsive young superhero, displays traits often associated with ADHD, such as hyperactivity and difficulty staying still.