Neuronormativity in cinema as published on Much Much Spectrum.
Let's talk about neuronormativity in cinema and how it hurts #autistic people.
🌈 Firstly, it's important to recognize that society often values neurotypical behavior while stigmatizing neurodivergent behavior. This is quite evident in the way films portray autism, mostly through stereotypes and harmful tropes.
🌈 But even beyond representation, films also frequently use sensory overload as a way to create tension or drama, without considering the impact it has on autistic viewers. For many autistic people, loud sounds and bright lights can be overwhelming and distressing.
🌈 When a sound or visual is sensorily corrosive, it's often considered powerful and impactful. This reinforces the idea that neurotypical experiences are inherently more valid and valuable than neurodivergent experiences.
🌈 I avoid going to movie theaters for this exact reason. Because of the sensory overload and discomfort it can cause. And even when watching something at home, I need to hold the TV remote at all times because sounds and visuals can suddenly become overbearing, causing a meltdown.
🌈 This is a common coping mechanism for many autistic people & it highlights the need for more inclusive practices in the film industry.
🌈 Neuronormative approaches also perpetuate the idea that autism is something to be fixed or cured, rather than embraced & accommodated.
🌈 As a content company, we at Much Much Spectrum
are committed to challenging neuronormativity through our films and creating a more inclusive and diverse film industry, and adding diversity also to our creative ethos.
🌈 One way we're doing this is by incorporating soft music into our films, which can create a calming and comfortable viewing experience for autistic individuals and other neurodivergent audiences. And avoiding flashy visuals and edits.
🌈 A lot of our viewers write in and comment on our content appreciating this accommodation, and they find our films more accessible and enjoyable.
🌈 If you're a creator or filmmaker, consider taking this approach to your content. Let's move away from neuronormativity and harmful stereotypes, and embrace a more inclusive and diverse approach to storytelling.