Filmmaker Marianne Kaplan turns the camera on her own family, creating a rare and intimate first-hand portrait of living with Asperger Syndrome (AS)-a form of high-functioning autism characterized by socially and emotionally inappropriate behavior, and an inability to interact successfully with others.

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The film follows Kaplan's son Adam as he makes his way through Grade 7. His condition creates many challenges for him among his schoolmates and he is painfully aware of his separateness, "I have no clue, really. Am I retarded? That's how kids make me feel. I don't like having Asperger's. I don't like being considered different."

Adam's parents share the same concerns of all parents, but their fears intensify because of his daily challenges. They look at their son and ask questions that all parents grapple with, including: Will he be better at learning? How can he make and keep friends so he doesn't feel so utterly isolated and alone? How will he handle issues like dating, drugs and peer pressure?

Adam Kaplan, at twelve.

The result is a deeply moving film about a turbulent year in the life of a family.

The Boy Inside is produced and directed by Marianne Kaplan of MSK Productions Ltd. (Vancouver).