The Peanut Butter Falcon

A 2019 feel-good adventure film, The Peanut Butter Falcon follows Zak, a young man with Down syndrome, who escapes a care facility to pursue his dream of becoming a professional wrestler. Along the way, he befriends Tyler, a troubled fisherman, and Eleanor, his caretaker. The film is praised for its uplifting story, strong performances (notably Zack Gottsagen, Shia LaBeouf, and Dakota Johnson), and positive message about friendship and following your dreams. It’s available to watch on streaming platforms like Netflix and for purchase on DVD/Blu-ray from various retailers

The directors of The Peanut Butter Falcon, Tyler Nilson and Michael Schwartz, were inspired to create the film after meeting Zack Gottsagen, an aspiring actor with Down syndrome. They wanted to craft a story specifically for him, reflecting his dreams and personality, and to challenge Hollywood’s lack of representation for people with disabilities. Their personal connection with Gottsagen and their desire to tell an authentic, uplifting story about friendship and inclusion were central motivations behind the film’s creation.