LEARNING YOU Director Calls Movie a ‘Love Letter’ To Parents Of Kids With Autism

Published: October 28, 2025

By Movieguide® Staff

LEARNING YOU director and pastor Tyler Sansom says the movie is “a love letter” to parents of children with autism.

“We saw an opportunity to use a film to spread awareness for the parents and caregivers of children with autism and pair that with a tangible ministry,” Sansom told Movieguide®.

LEARNING YOU tells the story of an architect going on a Christmas road trip with his autistic son, with “their journey of struggle and hope [inspiring] a billionaire developer who has an autistic son of his own,” per the movie’s website.

“Based on a real life family, this story is a unique faith based film that pushes the boundaries of creativity to tell a raw and authentic story that is relatable to parents everywhere,” a synopsis from Faith Channel reads.

Sansom explained he didn’t want to “romanticize” autism, but rather, “tell a story where two people, a father and a son, had to learn from each other.”

“It’s a beautiful picture of discipleship, really, because learning someone takes time,” he said. “Whether it’s your child, or your spouse, or even God, real love doesn’t rush. It leans in and listens.”

He continued, “Sometimes, we want instant understanding, instant harmony, instant healing, but the Kingdom of God, it moves at the pace of relationship, not efficiency…the longer you walk with someone in love, the more you reflect the heart of God.”

“[LEARNING YOU] will feel like a love letter to both parents and caregivers of kids with autism, and also shine a light on how they are still made in God’s image,” Sansom concluded. “There’s this overwhelming sense of peace and acceptance…that’s really the spirit of the film.”

That message is shared on LEARNING YOU’s website, where there’s a letter addressed to parents and caregivers.

“To all the incredible parents and caregivers of children with special needs — you are true heroes,” the message states. “Every day, you give love, patience, and strength in ways that often go unseen, but never unnoticed. The way you advocate, encourage, and celebrate every milestone is a powerful reminder of what unconditional love truly looks like.”

It continues, “This is why The LEARNING YOU Movie was created — to honor your journey, to shine a light on the beauty and challenges you walk through, and to remind you that you are not alone. Your story matters. Your child matters. And the love you give is changing the world.”

LEARNING YOU premieres January 16, 2026. Check back to movieguide.org for the full review closer to the release date.

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