As the pandemic has reshaped (and continues to reshape) the collective film-viewing experience, it has also brought to the fore questions and conversations about cinema’s accessibility, particularly to diversely-abled audiences. How can we ensure that the audiovisual pleasures of movie-going can be enjoyed and appreciated by cinephiles from visually and hearing-impaired communities? Taking audio description practices and the experiences of blind and low-vision consumers as a case study, this panel will bring together advocates, cinephiles, filmmakers, and post-production technicians to examine the tools and structures that can allow for a more democratic and inclusive film culture. Participants will include Michele Spitz (Woman of Her Word), Eric Wickstrom (Director of Audio Production, IDC), Thomas Reid (audio description narrator and accessibility advocate), Dr. Hoby Wedler (educator and advocate, creator of “Tasting in the Dark”), and Rodney Evans (filmmaker, Vision Portraits). Co-organized by Michele Spitz.

Please note that this panel will feature live ASL interpretation.

To mark October’s designation as National Disability Employment Awareness Month, please join us immediately after the discussion for a one-of-a-kind blind wine-tasting presentation by Dr. Hoby Wedler. Hosted by Michele Spitz.

NYFF Talks are presented by:


Free tickets for NYFF60 Talks will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis beginning one hour prior to each event at the corresponding box office. Tickets are limited to one per person, subject to availability. For those unable to attend, video from these events will be available online on Film at Lincoln Center’s YouTube channel at a later date.