Unify Deaf Film Festival

Welcome to the Unify Deaf Film Festival, an extraordinary event that brought the vibrant narratives and artistic visions of Deaf creators to the forefront. This festival, realized through the collaboration between Undivided Productions and TIFF Community Impact, offered a unique and compelling experience for film enthusiasts and advocates of Deaf culture.

A Celebration of Deaf Storytelling

At the heart of the Unify Deaf Film Festival was a free public screening of a collection of short films crafted by talented Deaf filmmakers. These films not only entertained but also provided profound insights into the experiences of the Deaf community. The festival featured:

Ebony R. Gooden

His Hand, His Art

Directed by Ebony R. Gooden, this two-part documentary celebrates the life and work of Ralph “Ralf” Newberry, a Black Deaf artist whose journey and creations are as inspiring as they are influential

Alexandra Hickox & Nathan Hughes-Berry

The 5%

A film by Alexandra Hickox and Nathan Hughes-Berry that weaves together three distinct stories, portraying the diverse and rich experiences of Deaf individuals

Chrystene Ells

Deaf Crow: Fable Deaf

Directed by Chrystene Ells, this film delves into a magical realist myth, focusing on an elderly Deaf archivist's captivating tale

Storm Smith & Natasha Ofili

The Multi

A narrative by Storm Smith and Natasha Ofili, telling the poignant story of an isolated Black Deaf woman, exploring themes of identity and connection

A Platform for Dialogue and Learning

Following the screenings, attendees engaged in an enriching discussion, led by Undivided Productions and the directors of these remarkable short films. This onstage conversation was an enlightening and interactive exploration of the themes and creative processes behind each film.

Join Us Again

The Unify Deaf Film Festival, held on October 13, 2023, at TIFF Bell Lightbox, was just the beginning. The following days featured workshops and panel discussions at Urbanspace Gallery at 401 Richmond, further delving into the artistic and cultural significance of Deaf contributions to the arts.

As we look forward to future editions of this festival, we invite you to stay connected and join us in celebrating the remarkable stories and talents of the Deaf community. The Unify Deaf Film Festival is not just an event; it's a movement towards greater understanding, appreciation, and unity.