Sensory Friendly Films Pilot

Posted by Melissa Hincha-Ownby Aug 19, 2008

Going to see a movie with an autistic individual can be difficult due to the sensory-sensitive nature of many people on the autism spectrum. From the dark theatre to the loud and booming sound systems, a movie can quickly become overwhelming. The Autism Society of America (ASA) in cooperation with AMC Entertainment is addressing this issue by launching the Sensory Friendly Films pilot program.

From the ASA press release on the program, “In order to provide a more accepting and comfortable setting for this unique audience, the movie auditoriums will have their lights brought up and the sound turned down. Additionally, AMC’s “Silence is Golden®” policy will not be enforced unless the safety of the audience is questioned.”

The program will be debuting this month with special screenings of Star Wars: The Clone Wars. Star Wars fans will be able to take part in the program beginning on August 23 at 10:00 am local time in one of 11 theatres across the United States.

The following theatres will be participating in the pilot: AMC Barton Creek 14 in Austin, TX, AMC Columbia Mall 14 in Columbia, MD, AMC Ridge Park Square 8 in Brooklyn, OH, AMC Dutch Square 14 in Columbia, SC, AMC Castleton Square 14 in Indianapolis, IN, AMC Studio 30 in Olathe, KS, AMC Lynnhaven 18 in Virginia Beach, VA, AMC Deer Valley 30 in Phoenix, AZ, AMC Mesa Grand 24 in Mesa, AZ, AMC Mission Valley 20 in San Diego, CA and the AMC Hoffman Center 22 in Alexandria, VA.

For more information on the program, contact your local participating AMC Theatre.