On 30th June, Vue Cinemas in Rhyl showed their first autism friendly showing of a movie.
The first autism screening went down a storm and each month the cinema will be showing a film as part of the Autism Friendly Films initiative.
When it comes to seeing films on the big screen one we are used to the how loud the sound is and how dark the rooms are when viewing the latest blockbusters.
The key differences for the films shown every month are that the lights are turned up, allowing people to move around during the film and the sound is turned down, this all benefits those with autism that may be watching the movie.
With Vue joining the scheme, this now also means that people in the area will no longer have to travel miles to see one of these screenings, which is a great start for the local community.
When Can You See The Autism Showings At Vue Rhyl
The screenings are shown on the last Sunday of the month, films are selected for the content to be calming for the audience and so far have been very popular.
No adverts or trailers are shown before the film.
The lighting is brighter that usual.
The sound is reduced, so not to be too loud for the audience.
There is an allowance for increased levels of movement and noise.
With the above changes to the way a film is watched these have a much better effect on the audience and not only that, I have learnt that many parents and groups are really happy with the outlook of this new initiative.
With some children being affected by loud noises, bright lights and some even hypersensitivity to movement, a standard screening of a film just isn’t for them.
Something else that came to light when talking about the screenings is a small tent in a quiet corner of the theatre, where children can go if they feel that the screening is a little too much, this may include bubble tubes, blankets, calming music via headphones and even a beanbag to relax on.
Cinema For Everyone
I personally think this is a brilliant idea for cinemas across the country and from what I’ve seen from the earlier showing at my local cinema, this is going to be something that is not only going to be good for the community, but also good for local charities and organizations that cater for children with autism.
If you’d like to learn more, then check out the Dimensions website and/or follow the Twitter account @DimensionsUK, you can also find out more from your local Vue Cinema and their Twitter @VueCinemas.
OK Over To You Guys
So now I’m handing over to you dear readers, what do think of the idea of the Autism Friendly showing of films? Have you been to one already? What did you think?
Please let me know, I’d love to hear your thoughts.
Karen Woodham is the founder and owner of the Blazing Minds. She is also a Cinema reviewer and works with RealD 3D reviewing the latest 3D releases and IMAX, she has also had several articles published in various publications including the first edition of SFW Magazine. In 2015 she became an Award Winning Blogger and also has her website listed as one of the UK’s Top 10 Film Blogs.
