Definition of Asperger’s syndrome: Asperger syndrome is an autism spectrum disorder, and people with it therefore show significant difficulties in social interaction, along with stereotypies and other restricted and repetitive patterns of behavior and interests. It differs from other autism spectrum disorders by its relative preservation of linguistic and cognitive development. Although not required for diagnosis, physical clumsiness and atypical use of language are frequently reported. (Wikipedia)

Admittedly, I had never even heard of Asperger’s syndrome before watching “Adam”, which stars Hugh Dancy and Rose Byrne and went down a storm at Sundance earlier this year. Set in New York, Dancy (excelling in this challenging role) plays the aforementioned Adam, a handsome oddball who is obsessed with astrology and, at first glance, seems to be lacking somewhat in social skills. As plucky new neighbour Beth (Rose Byrne) soon discovers though, Adam’s very eccentric behaviour is actually the result of Asperger’s syndrome. The film follows the trajectory of the ensuing relationship between Beth and Adam, which is fraught with difficulty due to Adam’s illness.

As portrayed in the film, people suffering from Asperger’s usually find it difficult to lead an independent life. They adhere to a daily routine (remove them from it and they will panic), avoid eye contact with other people, tend to be socially inapt, and are unable to empathise emotionally. When Beth wants Adam to give her a hug for example, she has to ask for it, as he can neither detect her needs nor express his own feelings. Coupled with a capacity for brutal honesty and the inability to show subtlety (Adam’s attempt to flirt with Beth manifests itself in wondrous ways), meaningful relationships become a real challenge - Adam can’t exactly be described as perfect relationship material.

Asperger’s syndrome can range from mild to severe, in which case it segues into proper autism. People with Asperger’s usually also have an obsession with a particular subject, often one that involves numbers, which explains why many sufferers can be found working in IT and often manage to hold down very successful careers – rumour has it that Bill Gates suffers from a mild case of Asperger’s. Other famous names associated with the illness include Einstein, Mozart, Woody Allen and Steven Spielberg.

“Adam” is billed as a heartfelt romantic comedy, although it may be more appropriate to describe it as a comedy drama. Adam’s and Beth’s attempt to lead a ‘normal’ relationship leads to situations which are often hilarious and always touching, yet ultimately quite upsetting.