SYNOPSIS
OBLIVIOUS TO THE WORLD AROUND HER, A 30 YEAR OLD PROGRAMMER FNDS HERSELF STUCK IN THE MIDDLE OF A CODING SESSION. CONFINED TO HER BEDROOM, SHE FACES PROBING QUESTIONS FROM HER
CONFDANTE, ELIZABETH, WHO IS CONCERNED ABOUT JANE'S INNER TURMOIL. JANE INITIALLY BRUSHES OFF ELIZABETH'S ATTEMPTS AT DISCUSSION, UNAWARE THAT HER FRIEND IS TRYING TO UNCOVER THE ROOT OF HER STRESS. THROUGH THEIR CONVERSATION, JANE REALIZES THAT WHAT SHE TRULY CRAVES IS NOT A SOLUTION, BUT ACCEPTANCE, LEADING HER TO DECODE THE PROBLEM SHE'S BEEN GRAPPLING WITH. THE SIMPLEST SOLUTION IS OFTEN THE TRUTH.
Jane - Mia Foo
Jane, a late-diagnosed autistic woman in her thirties, excels in Cyber Security, driven by a deep-seated belief in creating a better world, even at the expense of her own well-being. Raised as a high achiever by immigrant parents, she feels immense pressure to excel and struggles with guilt whenever she takes a break. Despite her success, navigating the neurotypical world takes a toll on her, leaving her exhausted and longing for relief from the relentless pursuit of perfection.
Elizabeth -
Megan Placito
ELIZABETH SERVES AS JANE'S MIRROR, EMBODYING BELIEFS IN SELF-CARE AND THE IMPORTANCE OF REST. UNLIKE JANE, SHE UNDERSTANDS THE VALUE OF SUPPORT AND REJECTS THE NOTION OF FACING THE WORLD ALONE. DESPITE FREQUENTLY BEING DISMISSED BY JANE AS UNIMPORTANT, ELIZABETH REMAINS A STEADFAST SOURCE OF SUPPORT AND EMBODIES THE ESSENCE OF REST AND CONFIDENCE, TAILORED SPECIFICALLY TO JANE'S AUTISTIC NEEDS. ATTUNED TO JANE'S DESIRES AND REQUIREMENTS, ELIZABETH IS NURTURING AND CARING, REPRESENTING THE CHILDLIKE INNOCENCE THAT JANE STRIVES TO CONCEAL BENEATH HER HARDWORKING EXTERIOR.
The creator's statement
As a Maltese filmmaker, I felt a deep responsability to create a film that authentically represents the lived experience of autistic women without resorting to stereotypes. Portrayals of autistic women in media are limited, simplified, or focussed through a male lens. This film seeks to challenge that narrative by centering a voice rarely heard. This is the story of a woman who has spent her life masking, adapting, and existing in spaces not built with her in mind. With Decode Me, I hope to expand the way we see neurodivergent women on screen and offer another view of autism, away from the stereotypes.
Meet the Team
A great story is always the bedrock of a great film
Aki Studio London
Aki Studio London stands as a distinguished UK production company dedicated to crafting distinctive narratives aimed at captivating audiences worldwide. Fusing impactful storytelling with top-tier production values, we endeavor to leave a lasting impression on our viewers. Our commitment to excellence is bolstered by the guidance of industry stalwarts like Terry Bamber, ensuring that our content consistently upholds the highest standards of quality.
