The first SignLight International Film Festival will be held in Hollywood from April 16-20, spotlighting the incredible talents of Deaf filmmakers and creatives from around the globe. In a groundbreaking initiative, actor-director-producer CJ Jones is spearheading this event, which has garnered support from industry greats such as Troy Kotsur, Marlee Matlin, Shoshanna Stern, Craig Mazin, Rosie O’Donnell, and Andreas Deja.
A Celebration of Deaf Cinema
Screenings at the festival will include captivating films like “Silent Rhythm,” “Not Another Deaf Story,” “Speak in a Whisper,” and “Being Michelle.” By showcasing the works of Deaf filmmakers, this event aims to challenge the prevalent misappropriation of Deaf stories and roles by hearing individuals who often seek assistance to create a mere facsimile of Deaf experiences.
Jones himself believes that authentic representation necessitates genuine participation not only in front of the camera but also behind it. He states, “Our festival offers the industry a ‘how-to manual’ that illustrates models of successful Deaf/hearing creative collaborations, best practices, innovative Deaf/hearing communication solutions, and a contact roster of the best Deaf talent in the world.”
Distinguished Supporters and Stellar Performances
Joining the cause, Deanne Bray, Millicent Simmonds, Nyle DiMarco, Shaylee Mansfield, and Keivonn Woodard are among the distinguished supporters of the festival. The event will also feature a performance by American Sign Language (ASL) hip hop star Matt Maxey, popularly known as Deafinitely Dope. The performances, coupled with screenings, pitch sessions, panels, exhibition booths, live performances by Deaf dancers and song/sign performers, and family activities, promise five days of mesmerizing experiences.
A Vision Brought to Life
The festival will commence with a VIP reception and screening at the renowned Pacific Design Center. Through SignLight Inc., the non-profit entertainment career-training subsidiary of his production company SignWorld Studios, Jones will oversee this remarkable five-day event.
To learn more about the festival, visit the official website.
‘Wild Rescue’ Documentary Planned From Santa Barbara Wildlife Care Network
In other exciting news, the Santa Barbara Wildlife Care Network, in collaboration with filmmaker Ian Shive, is planning to release a captivating documentary titled “Wild Rescue: A Second Chance at a Wild Life.” This documentary, presented in IMAX, will showcase the extraordinary work of SBWCN in wildlife rehabilitation.
The film will delve into the newly constructed, state-of-the-art wildlife hospital that offers hope to over 3,500 animals every year. It will also capture the breathtaking beauty of the Santa Barbara region, including Channel Islands National Park, and its vibrant marine life. Through this documentary, audiences will witness the dedication of veterinarians, volunteers, and community members who tirelessly rescue, rehabilitate, and release injured or abandoned wildlife back into their natural habitats.
The full-length documentary, directed and executive produced by Ian Shive, is expected to release in the spring of 2025. Shive believes that making a positive impact on our planet begins by actively participating in efforts to improve our individual communities, one neighborhood at a time.
For more information about the Santa Barbara Wildlife Care Network, visit their website here.
Source: Variety