Paramount Pictures enhances accessibility for Deaf audiences across UK cinemas

Paramount Pictures has unveiled an exciting new initiative to improve accessibility for Deaf, deafened and hard-of-hearing audiences across the UK.

Working in partnership with the UK Cinema Association (UKCA), the Film Distributors’ Association (FDA), and the British Deaf Association (BDA), the studio is taking significant steps to strengthen the relationship between cinemas and the estimated 18 million people in the UK with hearing loss.

A new era for captioned screenings

The collaboration aims to expand the availability of captioned screenings nationwide, with a focus on scheduling them at varied times throughout the week to suit a broader range of viewers. In addition, the initiative will enhance deaf awareness among cinema staff, offering introductory British Sign Language (BSL) training.

These training sessions, delivered by the BDA’s expert trainers alongside Yvonne Cobb, the BDA Celebrity Ambassador, are already underway across the country. Yvonne, a renowned TV cook and presenter from BBC One’s Morning Live, is lending her expertise to ensure cinemas become more welcoming spaces for the Deaf community.

Exclusive captioned previews of blockbusters

Kicking off this initiative, participating cinemas will hosted an exclusive preview screening of Transformers One on 10 October 2024, featuring captions, a full day ahead of the film’s general release.

This exciting approach won’t stop there. Paramount has announced plans for similar “caption-only” previews of major releases, including Gladiator II, Sonic the Hedgehog 3, and The Smurfs Movie in 2025.

Industry leaders speak out

The initiative has been widely welcomed by industry leaders, highlighting its potential to transform the cinema experience for Deaf audiences.

Phil Clapp, Chief Executive of the UK Cinema Association, expressed his support:

“Our joint goal is to make the cinema experience even more accessible for Deaf audiences, from the moment guests enter the cinema to the moment they leave. We want cinemas to become spaces the Deaf community can always count on.”

Andy Leyshon, Chief Executive of the FDA, added:

“Improving accessibility and enhancing the audience experience is something we should all strive for. This initiative is a major step forward, and it reflects a growing trend of audiences—both hearing and Deaf—choosing captioned content across platforms. Over a quarter of the population now engages with captions, showing how widely accepted they’ve become.”

John Fletcher, Paramount Pictures UK VP & Managing Director, emphasised the studio’s commitment:

“Cinemas are already making great strides in improving accessibility, but we want to do even more alongside our exhibitor partners. This initiative is about going above and beyond to deliver a truly inclusive cinema experience.”

Building trust with the deaf community

BDA Ambassador Yvonne Cobb shared her perspective:

“The Deaf community loves going to the cinema. We want to trust this space and enjoy new releases like everyone else. With just a few simple adjustments, cinemas can make this a reality.”

Jaz Mann, BDA’s Head of Community, praised Paramount’s leadership in this effort:

“It’s rare for us to have the chance to see films ahead of hearing audiences. Paramount’s initiative sets a fantastic example—we hope other distributors follow suit.”

Paving the way for greater inclusion

Paramount Pictures’ commitment to accessibility marks an important milestone in creating a cinema culture that values inclusivity. By prioritising captioned screenings, raising staff awareness, and collaborating with organisations like the BDA, the studio is setting a powerful precedent for the film industry as a whole.

This initiative is more than just a box-ticking exercise, it’s a meaningful step toward building trust and creating a cinema experience that welcomes everyone.