Film Screening + Discussion: Who the Hell is Nigel?

Category: arts 155

Deaf Inclusion on Set is the topic of an upcoming virtual film screening and panel discussion. October 17 at 7 p.m.

Vancouver’s Story Money Impact, a non-profit focused on uniting documentary filmmakers with change makers, presents a virtual screening of the documentary Who the Hell is Nigel? and panel discussion on October 17. Participants and asked to watch the film at their convenience and join the conversation about Deaf inclusion on set. 

During the BC COVID-19 news briefings, an unwitting hero is made of Nigel Howard, a Deaf ASL interpreter who became an overnight sensation due to his dynamic interpretation style. Through his rise to fame, the underrepresentation of the Deaf community becomes glaringly evident. Who the Hell is Nigel? is a Deaf-friendly film that spotlights the needs of the Deaf community and models how to fully include them.

Register for this free event. A confirmation email containing the link to watch the film will be sent to all those who register.

About the Panelists:

Ladan Sahraei (she/her) is a pioneering Iranian-Canadian Deaf female filmmaker. As the first Deaf filmmaker in Iran, she has crafted numerous short films and directed two feature documentaries in Canada. Ladan’s exceptional work has garnered awards and recognition. 

Nigel Edwards is a multi-faceted filmmaker known for his captivating and thought-provoking films. Having graduated from Capilano University’s film program he uses a philosophy-infused approach, blending directing, mixed media, and sound design to explore the depths of the human experience. 

In 2003, Amanda Richer was chosen to play the principal role of Kendra in the ground breaking kids show, Deafplanet.com, which aired on TVO and garnered two Gemini Award nominations. Amanda went on to direct a documentary, Marianne Matters, where she won Best Canadian Filmmaker at the Toronto International Deaf Film and Arts Festival in 2011. For four months, Amanda was Sally Hawkins’ ASL (American Sign Language) coach on the Best Picture Oscar winning film, The Shape of Water. 

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