Unearthing “Dinosaur”: An In-Depth Look at the Controversial Dinosaur Television Series
The Hulu original series “Dinosaur,” filmed amidst the dramatic landscapes of Scotland, presents a unique narrative centered around two sisters: Nina, played by Ashley Storrie, and Evie, portrayed by Kat Ronney. The series gains immediate intrigue with its premise: Nina is autistic, and notably, so is Storrie herself. This casting choice sparks a crucial question: Does the series succeed in its portrayal of autism, or does it fall short? Let’s delve into the prehistoric world of “Dinosaur” and excavate the truth.
Authentic Representation or Harmful Stereotypes: Examining the Dinosaur TV Show
“Dinosaur” makes a significant stride by casting an autistic actor, Ashley Storrie, to play an autistic character. This authentic representation is further amplified by Storrie’s role as co-creator of the series. The show depicts Nina engaging in behaviors often associated with autism, such as intense interests (dinosaurs, in this case), a rigid adherence to routines, aversion to change, and direct communication. These portrayals resonate with the lived experiences of many autistic individuals, offering a refreshing departure from the often inaccurate or stereotypical depictions seen in other media.
Furthermore, “Dinosaur” bravely tackles the challenges faced by autistic individuals. One poignant scene depicts Nina experiencing sensory overload during a dress fitting, culminating in an autistic meltdown. This unflinching portrayal of a meltdown, a rarely explored aspect of autism in mainstream media, adds a layer of realism and relatability to the series. Nina’s characterization as a relatable individual, far from the stereotypical portrayal of autistic characters as either savant geniuses or socially inept individuals, is another commendable aspect of the series.
However, the series stumbles in its execution. Despite its commitment to authentic representation, “Dinosaur” frequently falls back on harmful stereotypes. Scenes showcasing Nina’s unfiltered anger and direct communication, while potentially realistic, risk reinforcing negative perceptions of autistic individuals as aggressive or lacking social skills. This contradictory approach undermines the show’s positive aspects, leaving viewers with a conflicted perspective.
Adding to the series’ shortcomings is its brevity. With only eight episodes, “Dinosaur” struggles to fully develop its characters and their relationships. The central sisterhood between Nina and Evie feels underdeveloped, leaving viewers yearning for a deeper exploration of their dynamic. The limited runtime ultimately hinders the series’ potential, preventing a more nuanced and comprehensive portrayal of autism and familial relationships.
A Final Verdict on the Dinosaur TV Series on Hulu
“Dinosaur” presents a complex dilemma. While laudable for its authentic casting and depiction of certain autistic experiences, the series ultimately falters due to its reliance on negative stereotypes and its insufficient runtime. These significant flaws overshadow the show’s positive attributes, making it a difficult recommendation for viewers seeking accurate and nuanced representations of autism.
