Autism Society to host Sensory Friendly Films

AMC Entertainment and the Autism Society have teamed up to bring families affected by autism and other disabilities a special opportunity to enjoy their favorite films in a safe and accepting environment on a monthly basis. Sensory Friendly Films  premiered across the country in August 2008, and will continue this month with a showing of "The Tooth Fairy" at 10 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 6.

Autism is a complex neurodevelopmental disability that affects a person’s ability to communicate and interact with others. It often comes with sensory challenges, such as hypersensitivity to light or sound, and children or adults affected by autism may not understand the social boundaries of movie theater etiquette, such as not talking during the film or sitting still through most of the show.

In order to provide a more accepting and comfortable setting for children with autism or other special needs, AMC movie auditoriums will have their lights brought up and the sound turned down, families will be able to bring in their own gluten-free, casein-free snacks, and no previews or advertisements will be shown before the movie. Additionally, audience members are welcome to get up and dance, walk, shout or sing.

Tickets cost $6 and can be purchased on the day of the event.

WHERE

• AMC South Barrington 30, 175 Studio Dr., South Barrington

• AMC Northbrook 14, 1525 Lake Cook Rd., Northbrook

• AMC Cantera 30, 28250 Diehl Rd., Warrenville

A list and map of participating theaters is available at www.autism-society.org/sensoryfilms. This nationwide event has 87 participating theaters in 46 markets.