This year’s Oscars felt very different. As more stories emerge about survivors of abuse in the film world, it is right that some of the historic imbalances in that particular industry, and in society as a whole, are starting to be addressed. This is the first time I have heard the term ‘inclusion rider’ and expect to be hearing it a lot more.
In terms of language, the Oscars has had a Best Foreign Language category since 1956. This year it was won by ‘Una mujer fantástica’ from Chile. Its topic of gender identity in the context of an uncaring society clearly touches on many contemporary themes relating to inclusion and tolerance. This film in Spanish has now been released internationally and is showing at a handful of independent cinemas. Maybe a wider retail release some time in the summer will allow more people to see it.
The winner of the Best Live Action Short award also centred around the use of another language. ‘The Silent Child’ is a British film about the struggles of a young girl who communicates through British Sign Language. I am particularly pleased about the success of this film, as I once worked with an older pupil in a similar situation and gained a little insight into the enormous challenges she has faced in her young life.
Rachel Shenton, who also wrote and starred in the film, signed her acceptance speech to much applause both in the auditorium and subsequently in the media. Well done to all involved. I definitely encourage more people to learn their local sign language.
‘The Silent Child’ is available on YouTube and Google Play (currently £1.49).
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