AMC provides sensory friendly movie viewing

From The Indianapolis Star:

AMC Entertainment (AMC) and the Austism Society of America (ASA) have teamed up to begin testing a pilot program to bring families affected by autism a special opportunity to enjoy their favorite films in a safe and accepting environment on a monthly basis. "Sensory Friendly Films" are premiering across the country this month with a special showing of the new animated film "Star Wars: Clone Wars."

Autism is a complex neurodevelopmental disability that affects a person's ability to communicate and interact with others. It often comes with sensory challenges, such as hypersensitivity to light or sound, and children or adults affected by autism may not understand the social boundaries of movie theatre etiquette, such as not talking during the film or sitting still through most of the show.

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, audience members are welcome to get up and dance, walk, shout or sing -- in other words, AMC's "Silence is Golden®" policy
will not be enforced unless the safety of the audience is questioned.

Sensory Friendly Films are kicking off across the country on August 23. Other markets include Austin, Texas; Baltimore; Cleveland, Ohio; Columbia, S.C.; Kansas City; Norfolk, Va.; Phoenix; San Diego; and Washington, D.C. For a complete list of theatres, visit www.autism-society.org.