Introduction

A new documentary is in pre-production that aims to shine a light on the often-overlooked contributions of learning disabled and autistic individuals within the film and television industry. The project is led by British producer-director Lizzie Evans, marking a pivotal step in addressing representation and inclusivity in the entertainment sector.

About the Documentary

The documentary, tentatively titled This Is The Industry or Where Do You Want Us?, will feature interviews with notable celebrities from the film and television landscape, further enriching the narrative with diverse perspectives. Evans describes the project as the first of its kind to explore the dynamic subculture of autistic, learning disabled, and neurodivergent creatives who inhabit both on-screen and off-screen roles.

According to the documentary’s synopsis, it aims to uncover the scope of this community, which often operates in the margins of the industry. In addition to personal stories, the film will delve into critical issues regarding the sustainability of UK screen industries, examining environmental challenges and societal inequities.

Investment in Inclusion

Initially conceived as a grassroots initiative, the scale of the project has significantly expanded, attracting interest from broadcasters and disability organizations. Evans has expressed her commitment to showcasing the barriers she and others like her face in the industry, commenting, “As an autistic filmmaker, I’ve faced a lot of invisible barriers that still exist across the industry.”

This documentary represents her major directorial debut, and she emphasizes the importance of the film not only for herself but for individuals who share similar experiences. “Those same barriers are the very themes this documentary tackles, and it’s why I have to make this film,” she added.

Festival Participation

The documentary will be featured at the upcoming Oska Bright Film Festival, which is recognized as the leading platform for films made by or featuring individuals with learning disabilities or autism. This festival will provide a significant opportunity for the project to reach a wider audience and promote dialogue about disability representation in media.

Industry Context

The focus on disability within the UK film and television sectors has gained momentum, particularly after creator Jack Thorne’s 2021 MacTaggart speech addressed the industry’s failures towards disabled individuals. Campaigns for better representation are ongoing, as advocates strive to improve opportunities for a demographic that encompasses approximately 20% of the UK population, with an estimated one in seven individuals identified as neurodivergent.

Conclusion

This documentary by Lizzie Evans stands to be a transformative contribution to the conversation around disability in the creative industries. By amplifying the voices of those often relegated to the sidelines, it promises to challenge norms and foster a more inclusive environment for future generations of creatives.