Cinema subtitles - What a very good idea

Saturday, March 06, 2010

DEAFNESS is a difficult condition that can often have consequences far beyond its immediate impact.

It can lead to social isolation and loneliness, maybe even depression. It is stating the obvious to say that it hinders communication but very few of us have considered what that actually means. In some instances, basic conversation or even using a phone is impossible. Going to the cinema or a concert may not always be enjoyable. That is why the innovation at Blackpool’s Reel Cinema, in Cork city, is so very welcome.

The cinema is to become the first in the country to provide subtitles to some mainstream films. This will mean that deaf or hard of hearing people — one-in-seven of us — can enjoy a central element of contemporary culture, one too long denied to them.

The cinema’s owner, Tom O’Connor, is to be congratulated on the progressive move. He has shown the way to the rest of the country’s cinemas.

Let us hope they follow his lead and offer an option to deaf people which we all enjoy.

This story appeared in the printed version of the Irish Examiner Saturday, March 06, 2010