ReelAbilities Film Festival
The largest US film festival dedicated to promoting awareness of people with disabilities through film, held annually in New York City and touring to over 20 cities across North America.
Overview
ReelAbilities Film Festival is the largest film festival in the United States dedicated to promoting awareness and appreciation of the lives, stories, and artistic expression of people with disabilities. Founded in 2007 in New York City, the festival has grown into a touring event that presents programming in over 20 cities across North America each year.
The festival presents documentaries, narrative features, and short films that portray disability authentically and with dignity, challenging stereotypes and providing visibility for disability communities. ReelAbilities screens films by disabled filmmakers alongside films by non-disabled filmmakers who engage seriously with disability experience.
The festival's touring model brings disability-focused cinema to audiences across North America and has built a network of partner venues, disability organizations, and community groups that extends the festival's reach far beyond New York.
Key Sections
- Feature Film Program -- documentaries and narratives about disability experience
- Short Film Program -- short films featuring disability stories
- Works by Disabled Filmmakers -- films made by directors with disabilities
- Panels and Discussions -- conversations on disability, representation, and film
- Accessible Screenings -- all screenings are designed to be fully accessible
What Filmmakers Should Know
ReelAbilities accepts open submissions. Films must have disability as a central theme or feature disabled characters or filmmakers significantly. The festival's accessibility commitment means that all screenings provide captions, audio description, and other accessibility features.
For disabled filmmakers, ReelAbilities provides a dedicated platform and community. For filmmakers working on disability-themed projects, the festival connects them with disability communities and the organizations that support them.
Major Awards
- Jury Award -- Best Film
- Audience Award -- across touring cities
Festival History
ReelAbilities was founded in 2007 by the JCC Manhattan and has grown to become the largest disability-focused film festival in North America, with a touring model that reaches communities across the continent.
See Also
For inclusive filmmaking, see Independent Filmmaking Strategies. For festival strategy, see Film Festival Strategy.
