Islands of Genius

At the heart of Islands of Genius is a sparkling combination of science and wonder, of incredible potential and incredible achievement, of light and darkness.

At the heart of the Islands of Genius is a savant.

Leslie Lemke
The Savant

Leslie Lemke's once-in-a-generation story has an unforgettable human and emotional element.  His stunning musical abilities as well as his incredible story of overcoming seemingly insurmountable obstacles are the very marrow of a compelling film.

May Lemke
The woman at the heart of it all

While Leslie's abilities are the "hook" of the story, the heart of the story will be found in his mother: a dynamic woman full of strength, generosity, and remarkable self-sacrifice.

The true story of unconditional love Mae shows her beloved foster child--no matter the personal cost--will elevate this from a "good film" to an unforgettable cinematic and personal experience for audiences around the world.  

Dr. Darold Treffert
Doctor & Guide

Dr. Treffert is the world's expert on savants.  His decades of revolutionary research contains hundreds of documented cases of humans from all over the world with unique and incredible gifts and abilities.  This multi-faceted inter-disciplinary project takes its name from one of Dr. Treffert's books.  

Footage of Leslie and May

• View original footage of Leslie's mother, May, sharing some of their incredible story.

• View original footage of Leslie playing the piano for his mother who developed Alzheimer's in her final years.