ReelAbilities international film screenings and events, “Celebrating disability, promoting inclusion, and advancing accessibility through film,” take place year round worldwide, virtually and in person. Founded by the Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan as a New York City film festival, ReelAbilities is renowned as the first event that exclusively showcases films by and about people with disabilities. Now incorporated as a not-for-profit agency, the organization has expanded its reach with the Affiliate Festivals Program, making it possible for groups throughout the nation and across the globe to present ReelAbilities in their communities. It is now considered “the nation’s premier organization dedicated to promoting awareness and appreciation of the stories and artistic expressions of people with disabilities through film.” To learn more, visit the website for ReelAbilities. For information about programs in various locations, check out the page listing ReelAbilities International Screenings and Events.
Coming Soon: ReelAbilities Film Festivals in New York City and Los Angeles
ReelAbilities Film Festival New York will take place April 3 through 10, 2024 online and at venues throughout the NY metropolitan area. This weeklong event is “renowned for its wide-ranging international film selection, riveting conversations, and performances…” Many of the films are available with audio description for people who are visually impaired. Tickets are available for single films (generally for $15 plus fees), the series, and shorts. Some of the short films may be accessed free of charge. A limited quantity of free registrations are available, thanks to philanthropic support, for those “for whom the price of entry is cost-prohibitive.” To request this arrangement, email [email protected]. For more information and tickets visit the website for ReelAbilities New York.
ReelAbilities Film Festival Los Angeles runs from May 4 to 5, 2024. Hosted by the City of Los Angeles Department on Disability, in partnership with Grand Performances, the event will be held in Downtown LA’s California Plaza. The festival is “dedicated to promoting awareness and appreciation of the lives, stories, and artistic expressions of people with disabilities.” ReelAbilities Los Angeles features new and classic films, conversations, and community programs. Each film is presented with audio descriptions for people who are visually impaired. This event is provided in person at no cost, courtesy of contributions from sponsors. For additional details, including a list of films, visit the webpage for ReelAbilities Film Festival Los Angeles.
