Out of My Mind

As the film progresses, and Melody continues to find new and innovative ways to express herself and communicate, she finds a new grasp on life, which helps her true personality shine through. This ultimately creates a heartwarming and engaging film that constantly challenges expectations and forces us to assess our own bias.

The lessons here may go down easy, but “Out of My Mind” knows better than to resolve the lifelong tug-of-war between what’s possible for Melody and what isn’t. Instead, it simply suggests that she has more to say than most people have learned how to hear, which is almost their loss as much as it is her own.

Out of My Mind is a worthy and unique coming-of-age tale. Despite the speedbumps encountered, the filmmakers drive home the poignant message that a person’s disability shouldn’t impede their growth and independence.

The director, Amber Sealey, and the strong cast keep things grounded, though, honoring the serious undercurrents while having some fun.