Famous Disabled Filmmakers - Horizon Project INC

“D/deaf, disabled, and neurodiverse people, face discrimination every day. Society tells us that people with disabilities are less-than; those disabilities should be “overcome” or ignored– not an inherent part of humanity that is embraced.

The entertainment industry perpetuates and reinforces this ableist narrative. On the rare occasion that we see disabled on screen, they are very often reduced to objectified tropes of either tragedies or inspirations. They are portrayed either as heroic for just existing; as powerless victims in need of pity; or as “others”: villains, curiosities, or freaks.

Film, television, and other media have enabled the negative treatment of disabled people for far too long. This must and will change.” ^[1]

There are plenty of documentaries about disabled people but very few are directed, written, or produced by disabled people.

Let’s get to know a few of the incredible disabled filmmakers:

“People with disabilities deserve to be portrayed in a way that’s accurate and honest because people without disabilities need to be informed, educated, and respectful of people with disabilities. Young people especially need positive, realistic portrayals of disabilities – and film and television are a great outlet for this.

Disability is a part of everyday life. If entertainment is to be a reflection of the real world, then it should always include disability.” ^[12]

Resources

[1] https://www.fwd-doc.org/

[2] https://www.fordfoundation.org/fellows/jim-lebrecht/

[3] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Keely_Cat-Wells

[4] https://www.firelightmedia.tv/filmmakers/jason-dasilva

[5] https://www.fwd-doc.org/films

[6] https://catapultfilmfund.org/research-grants/grantees/reiddavenport/

[7] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicole_Newnham

[8] https://virginiafilmfestival.org/speakers/nicole-newnham/

[9] https://www.domevansofficial.com/

[10] https://www.instagram.com/ella_bee_g/?hl=en