The Gaudí Cycle leads the way towards more inclusive and accessible cinema

The Catalan Film Academy's Gaudí Cycle consolidates its commitment to inclusion and the democratization of culture by promoting new initiatives that place accessibility as one of the project's top priorities. The Gaudí Cycle—which includes the deaf and hard of hearing—has reached 80% of the theaters participating in its circuit that screen in Blu-ray format. The project boasts a stable film program that guarantees this level of accessibility in all its screenings.

5th Gaudí Cycle Training Day

Within the framework of the 5th Gaudí Cycle Training Day, an online session that this year focused on how to improve accessibility and attention to disabilities in the Cycle's screenings and other cultural activities in the rooms and facilities that are part of it, Ana Álvarez, a deaf person who communicates orally, explains that a film is explained in a labyrinth that we cannot solve" and, therefore, "subtitling is not a luxury, it is a necessity", adding that it is not about entertainment, but about opportunities and human rights: "We want to see any film, in any room, on the day and time that suits us".

For his part, Aleix Castany, a person with low vision, explained that the obstacles they encounter "cause a distance from the experience," which prevents them from enjoying it. However, Álvarez asserted that cinema has the power to unite around shared stories: "We don't let silence be an obstacle," he concluded.

Mònica Surís, accessibility consultant and trainer for the event, emphasized that "each person is different and needs different things." Therefore, it is important to adapt to the diverse needs of each case.

The Cycle's website includes detailed information on the conditions and accessibility measures offered by each theater. This is a resource that is especially useful for people with disabilities, as it allows them to better anticipate and plan their visits.

Promote socialization among people with intellectual disabilities

Since May, the Gaudí Cycle has launched a new collaboration with Dinder Club, an app that promotes socialization for people with intellectual disabilities. Through this partnership, the Cycle aims to transform the movie theaters participating in its project into inclusive spaces where members of the group and app users can expand their social network and enjoy film culture.

The first Dinder Club group attended a screening on May 29 at the Tarragona Provincial Council Auditorium. During June, sessions will be added at the Cassà de la Selva Recreation Center, the Arenys de Munt Center, and the Foment Martinenc in Barcelona.