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Deaf Out Loud

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2018

Deaf Out Loud is an acclaimed documentary that highlights the unique challenges, struggles, and victories of three deaf families determined to raise their children in a society with a prevalence of hearing culture. Oscar-winning actress Marlee Matlin, a prominent advocate for the deaf community, serves as the executive producer of the film. Matlin, who herself is deaf, has made it her mission to expose audiences to the seldom-explored aspects of deaf culture while exploring the vast spectrum of deafness.

The documentary takes an intimate and authentic look into the lives of these families. It juxtaposes moments of intimacy and familial bond with the daunting issues they face daily due to their inability to hear. From schooling to communication, every challenge is met with perseverance, resilience, and a mutual understanding of their unique experiences. The audience is provided with an opportunity to understand, respect, and appreciate the personal experiences of individuals who navigate the world without the ability to hear.

Like many documentaries, Deaf Out Loud is didactic, providing profound insights into the realities and perspectives of being deaf. However, the approach is far from preachy or factual. Instead, the families' stories are narrated with warmth, humor, and genuineness – humanizing their experiences and making them relatable to viewers.

Each family featured in the documentary comes with its unique circumstances—some parents are deaf with hearing children. In contrast, other families feature deaf parents with deaf children or a mixed family, where the parents are deaf, but the children are not, and vice versa. The families also differ in their communication preferences; some use American Sign Language (ASL), while others use spoken English and lip-reading.

One of the primary themes within Deaf Out Loud is the concept of "Deaf identity" and what it means to the individuals and families featured. The documentary explores the idea that deafness is not merely a physical condition but a cultural identity and a personal experience that differs greatly within the deaf community. The subtle, nuanced presentation will make the audience ponder deep-seated preconceptions about deafness.

Deaf Out Loud also scrutinizes the education system and its approach to teaching deaf students. It brings to light the controversy and disagreements within the deaf community about oral schooling versus signing schools. The documentary exhibits the visible aftermath of these decisions on the children and their families. It is a testament to the resilience of these families as they stand resolute in the face of societal pressures and prejudices.

There is an inherent didactic dichotomy throughout Deaf Out Loud—on one side, the documentary seeks to enlighten the hearing population about the intricacies of deaf culture, while on the other, it serves as a platform that empowers the deaf community by amplifying their voices and experiences. This documentary's relatability and universality lie in its exploration of family dynamics, resilience, and the human spirit's indefatigable strength.

Marlee Matlin, as the executive producer, provides a significant authoritative voice and authenticity to the narrative of Deaf Out Loud. Her lifetime experiences and active contributions to deaf activism accentuate the film's thematic resonance.

The aesthetic of Deaf Out Loud also contributes greatly to its narrative. Vibrant scenes filled with genuine emotions and dialogues are interspersed with subtle moments of silence, reminding the audience of the protagonists' silent world. The film's production utilizes sound and silence strategically, presenting an immersive and intimate viewing experience.

Deaf Out Loud succeeds in bringing to light a perspective that is often overlooked and misunderstood by mainstream media. It is a thought-provoking exploration of what it means to be deaf in a predominantly hearing world. The audience is left with an increased understanding and a newfound appreciation of the richness and complexity of deaf culture. This film not only personalizes the experience of being deaf but also festoons it with dignity. This documentary is more than information; it is an observation, it is respect; it is a commendation of the stout hearts that make deaf lives an indomitable joy. A must-watch for those seeking a deeper understanding of the deaf community and deaf culture.

Deaf Out Loud is a Documentary movie released in 2018. Critics and viewers have rated it no reviews, with an IMDb score of 0.0..

Stars
Marlee Matlin
Genres