The National Autistic Society Scotland and Glasgow Film Theatre are delighted to announce the relaunch of their Autism friendly film screenings: Access Film Club. 

A special event to mark the relaunch will take place on Monday 14 August at Glasgow Film Theatre and includes a screening of the Scottish horror-comedy Get Duked!, starring autistic actor Lewis Gribben, who has filmed an intro for the event. 

In Ninian Doff’s directorial debut, four teenagers travel to the Highlands to complete a Duke of Edinburgh Award. Through a series of strange encounters they become forced to fight for their very survival in this hip-hop and black comedy laced adventure. 

Originally launched in 2014, Access Film Club is a popular and inclusive monthly film event developed by Glasgow Film Theatre in collaboration with The National Autistic Society Scotland. Access Film Club is designed to engage with people aged 15+ who welcome a relaxed cinema environment.  

To ensure the screenings feel as relaxed as possible there are no adverts or trailers before the film; sound levels are turned down slightly lower; and LED stair lights remain on throughout the film. Every screening also includes a friendly post-film discussion. 

The forthcoming relaunch will see the club introduce two brand new Calm Kits, which include fidget cubes, weighted shoulder wraps and stress balls. These can be used by audience members while watching the film or in the nearby designated Quiet Room. 

Lewis Gribben said: “The Access Film Club is a great and much-needed idea from Glasgow Film Theatre to allow neurodivergent people the freedom and right to lose themselves in the magic of film in a safe and secure environment, without the fear of judgement or need to compromise who they are. 

“It is great to see Glasgow Film Theatre being inclusive of a wider community who otherwise may not get the chance to experience the big screen. As an autistic actor, I am proud to help re-launch Access Film Club and to present my film Get Duked! as part of the launch event.” 

Rob Holland, Director of the National Autistic Society Scotland said: “We are delighted to renew our partnership with Glasgow Film Theatre to relaunch the wonderful Access Film Club which has been so successful over the years. We know that two thirds of autistic people in Scotland report feeling socially isolated, in part because going out can be stressful, particularly for those facing sensory challenges.   

“Cinemas themselves can often be chaotic, noisy and anxiety inducing places meaning that autistic people can miss out on the simple joy of watching a film on the big screen. Access Film Club offers an inclusive, relaxed and welcoming experience where autistic people and others can enjoy films stress free.   

 “We hope that other cinemas and venues across Scotland follow in the footsteps of Glasgow Film Theatre by looking at how they can make the movie-going experience as inclusive and accessible as possible.”  

You can buy your tickets for £6.50 here.