By Judy Shields
Hollywood, CA (The Hollywood Times) 12/22/2025 – “To all the incredible parents and caregivers of children with special needs — you are true heroes,” said Tyler Sansom, Producer/Director of LEARNING YOU.
First Capital Films, in association with Faith Channel, announces the upcoming release of the feature film, LEARNING YOU, opening in select theaters nationwide on Jan. 16, 2025. The heartfelt drama, inspired by real families of children with special needs, that’s turning Hollywood storytelling into real-world impact.
LEARNING YOU honors the everyday heroes — parents and caregivers of children with autism and other special needs — whose love, sacrifice and unseen strength reflect the best of the human spirit. Rooted in hope, healing and the redemptive love between a father (John Wells) and son (Caleb Milby), LEARNING YOU follows a man who learns to truly see his son (and himself) for the first time. When an architect embarks on a Christmas road trip with his autistic son, their journey of struggle and hope inspires a billionaire developer who has an autistic son of his own. From the sterile lights of a hospital to the healing waves of Myrtle Beach, the film reminds viewers that miracles don’t always come as expected, but they are no less real.
Inspired by the everyday heroes raising children with special needs, Learning You tells the heartfelt story of a father learning to truly see his son—and himself—for the first time. What makes this film extraordinary is its mission: the filmmakers are donating 100% of their proceeds to ACT (Awareness, Connection, Touch), a nonprofit ministry they founded to support parents of children with autism and other special needs.
The cast includes Caleb Milby; Stacy Haiduk (“Days Of Our Lives,” “The Young & the Restless,” “Homeland”); Daniel Roebuck (“Matlock,” “The Fugitive”); Cameron Arnett (“The Forge,” “Overcomer”); John Wells (“Wolfhound,” “Arena Wars”); Al Snow (WWE Superstar); and Read Choi (social media influencer).
The film is produced and directed by Tyler Sansom, with a screenplay by J. Wayne Davidson, Justen Overlander (“The Chosen”), Sansom and Brad J. Silverman (“Grace Unplugged”).
Learning You captures the laughter, heartbreak, and hope that so many families experience every day. You can preview the official trailer below:
Beyond the screen, Learning You embodies inclusion and compassion:
- The production employed individuals on the autism spectrum and parents of children with special needs, both on-screen and behind the camera.
- The filmmakers are using every dollar of their proceeds to give back directly to the community the story was made for.
- The creative team led by Tyler Sansom and Steve DeGrasse crafted the film as both a love letter and a lifeline to caregivers who too often go unseen.
“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. This is why we created LEARNING YOU — 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.” Tyler Sansom, Producer/Director of LEARNING YOU.
I had the opportunity to speak with the Director/Producer Tyler Sansom about this amazing and beautiful film and lead actor John Wells on a separate interview. Their passion for creating both awareness and real-world impact make for a powerful, emotional statement that celebrates kindness, resilience, and the beauty of inclusion. Enjoy the two conversations below:
Interview with actor John Wells:
OMG. I can’t stop crying. The Most powerful movie I have ever seen. Heart Wrenching, but so loving, caring and what a lesson to learn. God is so powerful. I can’t imagine what it is like to raise a child into adulthood with special needs. My son, who is 40, has dyslexia, and that was something to deal with in school and homework, so this movie touched my heart. BRAVO to the writer, director and all the actors. Love the ending with the bear, brilliant. Make sure you stay until the end credits to see some cool outtakes. Judy Shields, The Hollywood Times
Anchored by themes of neurodiversity, unconditional love, and the quiet heroism of caregivers, LEARNING YOU is more than a film — it’s a reminder that every life has purpose and that compassion can change everything.
After its theatrical run, LEARNING YOU will be available to purchase online, followed by a streaming release through platforms yet to be announced.
For more information, visit www.learningyoumovie.com.
About First Capital Films
First Capital Films is a feature film production company that exists to help spread the love of Jesus through media. Its passion drives them to create compelling and impactful films that resonate with audiences of all backgrounds. Through storytelling and visual artistry, they aim to inspire, uplift, and share the message of hope and faith with the world. See more at Home | First Capital Films.
About Faith Channel, LLC
Faith Channel, LLC was founded in July 2024 as a free, faith-and-family streaming platform, providing a safe and uplifting space for Christian movies, shows, music, biblical teachings, and more. In its first year, Faith Channel has grown to reach over 250,000 monthly viewers, underscoring its commitment to delivering faith-first, family-forward content.
About ACT
ACT is a ministry of First Capital Christian Church that is designed to connect families of kids with special needs, provide resources for those families, and share love with them.
