Nathaniel R. Geyer, DrPH, CPH, GISP
Geek Girl is a British-based limited series that premiered on Netflix that although it does not use the terms neurodiversity or autism. It was written by a writer who was diagnosed in her 30s and the lead actor, Emily Carey, is a female on the spectrum. The series contains 10 episodes approximately 30 minutes long. It overviews the struggles of a girl on the spectrum that was bullied and being labeled as a geek.
The story is that a girl with a best friend who is into fashion and goes to a fashion show and unexpectedly gets discovered by a modeling agency that is willing to accommodate her special needs. The lead also gets acquainted with a male model who is into shared interests and shows a liking for her. The father also displays neurodiversity tendencies in that he is unable to hold a job and acts like a child at times like me. The stepmother is a lawyer who was not supportive of the fashion industry because she is fearful of being hurt and bullied. This mother figure is like what I am facing because in my life there is a fear of me dating that makes it difficult for me to find someone to date at my age.
The ten episodes were very fast-pacing and interesting to do a case study in neurodiversity without being labeled as neurodivergent. Without giving away spoilers this series is a must seen for all people although there are disclaimers for those with lighting sensitivities.
Unlike other autistic shows like the Good Doctor, which did not have a neurodivergent main character until season 7, Geek Girl is more of a reflection of neurodivergent individuals, who face bullying, rudeness, miscommunications, and estrangements, often with little to know understanding on why people are behaving these ways.
Although there are six books in the Geek Girls series, I was satisfied at the conclusion of the end of episode 10 and like the ending the way it is. If the other five books were produced by Netflix, I would have liked more of a character development for the minor characters instead of just being focused on the perspective of the main character. I hope you have a chance to see the show.
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