Sensory-friendly movie showings in Montgomery: guide to inclusive showings of popular films

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AMC Festival Plaza 16 will offer sensory-friendly screenings of blockbuster movies. (Michaela Broadnax / Montgomery UP)

Going to the movies is a classic family tradition, but for individuals with sensory sensitivities, the loud volume and pitch-black rooms can be overwhelming.

Fortunately, Montgomery theaters now offer sensory-friendly screenings with adjusted lighting and sound, designed for total comfort and inclusion.

What is a sensory-friendly screening?

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Montgomery is home to two AMC locations, offering a diverse selection of movies. ( Michaela Broadnax / Montgomery UP)

Sensory-friendly screenings are specialized movie showings designed to accommodate individuals with sensory sensitivities, such as those with autism.

The theater lights are turned up slightly, the volume is lowered, and audiences are free to move or make noise. These adjustments create a welcoming, judgement-free environment where everyone can enjoy the film.

Where to find sensory-friendly films in Montgomery

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The community can enjoy a fun day watching fan-favorite movies such as Moana, Supergirl, and Toy Story 5 while enjoying delicious snacks from concessions. (Michaela Broadnax / Montgomery UP)

American Multi-Cinema (AMC) partners with the Autism Society to offer these unique movie showings on the second and fourth Saturday and fourth Wednesday of every month, making inclusive entertainment more accessible to families.

Sensory-friendly showings of newly released blockbuster movies are coming soon to a theater near you.

Here’s what you need to know:

When:

  • The Odyssey: Wednesday, July 22 at 5:15PM
  • Moana: Saturday, July 25 at 1PM
  • Spider-Man Brand New Day: Saturday, August 8 at 5PM + Wednesday, August 12 at 11AM

Where: AMC Festival Plaza 16 7925 Vaughn Road

Rules: outside sensory-safe snacks allowed + no trailers or advertisements before the film starts

Learn more: Additional information can be found here

Cinema has always been about escaping into a great story. Sensory-friendly screenings give every family in the River Region a chance to experience the magic of the big screen together.

Programs like these prove that small adjustments can make a massive difference in community accessibility.

What are your thoughts on these sensory-friendly showings? Do you think more theaters should adopt similar programs to improve accessibility for everyone? Let us know on Facebook.

Michaela Broadnax
Michaela Broadnax
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