A few months ago, my husband was at the movies, and noticed a billboard advertising sensory friendly movie experiences. In the past, I have had horrible experiences with taking my youngest son to the movies. Of course, I didn't know he was on the spectrum. However, I did know it was a sensory overload for him to be there. So when I saw this message from my hubby, I was so excited to try it out.
Right off the bat, I loved the fact that these screenings are strategically dated for a few weeks after the release of the movie. By this time, die hard fans have already seen it, and that means less of a crowd.
Also, the movies are at 10:30am! Again, less crowds, and you get the rest of your day to have some more family fun!
If all of that isn't enough, these movies are only $6.50! Ha, I bet you're paying attention now, aren't you??
So on 7/9/16, we decided to visit the UA Sheepshead Bay Stadium 14 IMAX & RPX Theatre Located at 3907 Shore Parkway in Brooklyn NY.
I had high hopes, but I was cautiously optimistic. We were racing across Brooklyn from Williamsburg to Sheepshead. Dilly had just finished his swim class. I was fully prepared for meltdowns brought on by fatigue.
Purchasing the tickets (from the ticket kiosk) was painless, and efficient. My only critique is that you cannot purchase these tickets in advance from Fandango or any other ticketing service at the discounted $6.50 price. It will charge you $11.50, Therefore, we had to wait to purchase tickets on site. However, since the theatre was virtually empty, it wasn't the end of the world.
There was about a 12 minute wait in line for the concession stand. As usual, I was annoyed by the prices, but that would be at any theatre. I also wish they had more healthier options. Then again, movie goers don't look for healthy food at a theatre. It's more fun to binge on popcorn, hotdogs, and pretzel bites.
I also liked the fact that the movie was being shown on the 2nd floor, The entire building is handicap accessible. At this particular site, there is only one auditorium on the 2nd floor, and it has a restroom right next door. This makes bathroom breaks quick, and painless. You also don't have to worry about the traffic from all of the other auditoriums.
Walking into the auditorium, the first preview was on. We had Dilly's sensory headphones in hand, and his favorite blanket. We were ready to tackle any possible scenario. The first thing I noticed was the lowered volume. Typically, when we walk into a movie that has already started, Dilly immediately reacts to the loud volume, and darkness. Instead, he smiled and walked upstairs.
The next thing that caught my eye, was the small amount of people in the theatre. It couldn't have been more than 30 kids and adults. This made me feel comfortable with my ..err...outspoken son. Typically, we're met with annoyed glances. However, he was free to be himself. He talked loudly throughout most of the movie. I noticed another parent who had to walk up and down the stairs with his daughter the entire film! #fitnessgoals. I also noticed a little boy spinning in circles off and on. It was great to be in a judgement free room. Dilly LOVED the movie, and fell into a happy slumber about 20 mins before the ending. He has been talking about all of the characters non stop ever since.
Once the movie finished, a few workers came in to clean up. However, we were told to relax and take our time. He also mentioned that there was a short scene after the credits. I didn't get this mans name, but he made my day. We had a great experience, and we will be back next month for the sensory friendly screening of Ice Age!
If you would like to know if there are sensory friendly screenings in your area, visit regmovies.com/mywaymatinee
Over and Out!
Sharon
maynard1280@gmail.com
IG: shaymaydoug
Fb: Sharon Maynard-Douglas
