Animated children’s films Shaun the Sheep, Home and Paddington are among March’s Autism Friendly Films line-up, service provider Dimensions has announced.
Cineworld cinemas will show Shaun the Sheep on Sunday, March 1 at 11am. Showcase will show the same film the following Sunday (March 8), at 10am.
Meanwhile, ODEON will screen Home on Sunday, March 15 at 11:30am. The following day, for older viewers 10 selected ODEON cinemas will show the 15-rated film Focus, starting at 6pm.
Finally, Vue cinemas will show Paddington on Sunday March 29 at 10am, with prices from just £1.75.
Aardman Animation’s Shaun the Sheep – a big-screen version of the series on CBBC – sees the eponymous hero decide to take a day off. Following a mix-up with the farmer, a caravan and a steep hill, Shaun and his flock end up in the Big City and it is up to him to ensure everyone gets home safely.
Home tells the story of alien Oh, who comes to Earth when on the run from his own planet. On Earth, Oh forms a friendship with a girl named Tip, who is on a quest of her own. Through an ensuing series of adventures, Oh learns that being different and making mistakes is part of being human. And while Oh changes Tip’s planet and she changes his world, they discover the true meaning of the word home.
Paddington is the big-screen adaptation of the much-loved children’s book by Michael Bond. In the film, the young bear from Peru arrives alone in London at Paddington Station, and is taken in by the Brown family. While Paddington starts to enjoy his new life – of course, creating havoc along the way – this is threatened when a museum taxidermist spots him and thinks he would make a great addition to the museum.
Finally, for older viewers, Focus tells the story of veteran conman Nicky Spurgeon (Will Smith) who in his latest scheme comes up against an old flame of his, who is now an accomplished femme fatale, throwing his world – and his con – upside down.
Sensory friendly environment
Autism Friendly Screenings are mainstream films shown in a sensory friendly environment. Lights are on low, sound is turned down, trailers are omitted and people can bring their own food, make noise and move around the cinema as they feel comfortable.
To view a full list of participating cinemas visit www.dimensions-uk.org/autismfriendly.
ODEON tickets can be booked on the Wednesday before the screening through the ODEON accessibility helpline number 0800 138 3315. Or book online.
Vue tickets can be booked online or for information call 08712 240 240.
Cineworld tickets can be booked online or for information call 0871 200 2000.
