Charlie Mollison (The Black Balloon)

Charlie Mollison is a character in the Australian comedy-drama The Black Balloon (2008).

Character creation
Director and co-writer Elissa Down has three brothers, two of whom are autistic. The character Charlie is largely based on her youngest brother Sean, who also has ADHD. . Many incidents featured in the film are adaptations of real events. The writers also talked with Down's family members to get their perspectives. . Actor Luke Ford met up with Sean in preparation for the role.

Autism
Charlie's father states that Charlie is autistic and has ADD. He is non-speaking, and the family uses Makaton to communicate.

Reception
The movie has been well-received by the general public, with a 84% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes.