To help you get to know Daydream Cinema and where it came from, I’m going to post some blogs. Here’s the first one…
Cinema has been important in my life, as something to enjoy with family, friends and on my own. Being neurodivergent, I can struggle with social events and cinema filled a gap where I felt I could meet and be around people without extra pressure.
Finding work in my local independent cinema changed my life, gave me access to amazing films from all over the world and introduced me to lifelong friends.
I want everyone to be able to access the same cinema experience as I have.
What makes a cinema experience special?
Screenings where I feel comfortable to go to either alone or with neurodivergent friends and family work best for me.
I like to be amongst people but without having to force myself to be social when I don’t feel able to. I need plenty of space to get lost in the world on screen. I prefer a relaxed environment where I feel comfortable to leave the cinema if I need to. I like inclusive screenings that are stim and tic friendly and where people can be themselves.
Why set up Daydream Cinema?
While working in cinemas, I saw first-hand how neurodivergent and disabled people could be excluded by venues and audiences.
I’ve worked on access projects for over a decade, such as autism-friendly and dementia-friendly cinema. I love the work and want to focus on the concept of relaxed and accessible cinema and how this can be applied more broadly in the community.
It’s important that the advancement of these screenings are neurodivergent and disabled-led, taking a holistic look at access in the cinema industry and grounded in disability and neurodiverse rights.
Why ‘Daydream Cinema’?
The name Daydream Cinema is a reference to my experience watching films as a neurodivergent person with ADHD. I often zone out while watching films, sometimes having to watch a film several times to piece it together.
My enjoyment of the cinema is about more than the film alone. Being around good people, how it affects my mood and calms me, and gives me a sense of community is equally as important.
I wanted a name to reflect an idea of cinema that brings a diverse range of people together to support our community and our understanding of each other’s needs.