Here is a masterful biopicture about Temple Grandin, the famous autistic animal behavior expert who has revolutionized how livestock are treated in stockyards. Through flashbacks we learn that she was diagnosed with autism at age 4 and up to that point had not spoken a word. A doctor predicts that she will probably never speak. Her mother Eustacia (Julia Ormond), a college graduate, works hard to get Temple into regular schools. Her daughter then begins speaking. Eustacia is gratified in her mission to have people treat Temple as "different, but not less."

In the summer of 1966, Temple arrives at her Aunt Ann's (Catherine O'Hara) ranch near Tucson. Several turning points in this autistic girl's life happen during this visit. She is drawn to the animals, especially the cows and horses; she discovers she has an unusual capacity to empathize with them and feel their anxiety or pain. And second, she builds herself a squeeze chute similar to the ones used to calm cattle down for inoculation. It proves to be a great stress reducer especially when she is on edge or has been criticized by peers for being so weird.

In high school, Temple meets Dr. Carlock (David Strathairn) who become her mentor by challenging her to take seriously her mental acumen and creativity rather than spend all of her time reacting to others or controlling her impulses. He also counsels her to make the most out of her obstacles by turning them into doorways to fresh possibilities. This is wise spiritual advice that provides Temple with energy to persevere with her unique talents.

Temple goes on to Franklin Pierce College and then to graduate school at Arizona State University. After observing how cattle are treated in stockyards, she uses her ability to see things as they would to develop more humane slaughterhouse layouts and procedures, always keeping in the forefront of her mind the well-being of the animals.

This biopicture directed by Mick Jackson conveys the breadth and depth of Temple's heroism when she is confronted by the chauvinism and ignorance of the cattle industry. Since 1981 she has appeared at conferences on autism and given attendees hope about living and coping with this condition that afflicts 3 to 6 children out of 1,000. This disorder is more prevalent than childhood cancer.

Clare Danes won a Golden Globe Award and an Emmy Award for her astonishing performance as the accomplished lifelong learner and animal lover. The movie also received the Emmy for best made-for-TV movie as did director Mick Jackson and supporting actors David Strathairn and Julia Ormond.

Special features on the DVD include a featurette: "The Making of Temple Grandin" and an audio commentary with Dr. Temple Grandin, director Mick Jackson, and writer Christopher Monger.