AMC features Harry Potter as a 'Sensory Friendly Film'

July 10, 4:06 PMDC Autism ExaminerCaitlin Reiss

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    Photo: Warner Bros. Studios

For some kids, seeing a gold and maroon clad boy send a bolt of light from a magic wand on a 50ft screen in complete surround sound is pure bliss. For others on the autism spectrum, this sensory overload is the complete opposite.

Thankfully, when Warner Bros. releases its newest edition to the Harry Potter saga, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, on Wednesday, July 15th, just ten days later they will hold a 'Sensory Friendly Film' screening at AMC Theaters across the country.

Prompted by an idea from a mom in Columbia, MD, AMC Theaters launched Sensory Friendly Films, an innovative program that caters to the needs of children with autism, in August 2008.

Showings feature increased lighting, decreased noise levels and an overall friendly and accepting environment. To accommodate special dietary needs, theater goers are encouraged to bring their own snacks. Also, there is no need to worry about sitting still and quiet for hours. AMC's 'Silence is Golden' policy is lifted, and children are invited to stand up, move around and cheer.

AMC Theaters's will be airing Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince as a 'Sensory Friendly Film' July 25th at the following DC, Maryland, and Virginia locations:

DC

AMC Georgetown 14
3111 K St. NW, Washington, DC 20007
202-342-6033
 

Maryland

AMC MJ Capital Center 12
800 Shoppers Way, Largo, MD 20774
301-324-4220

AMC Columbia Mall 14
10300 Little Patuxent Pkwy., Columbia, Md. 21044
410-423-0510

AMC Rio Cinemas 18
9811 Washington Blvd., Gaithersburg, Md. 20878
301-948-6673

Virginia

AMC Tysons Corner 16
7850 Tysons Corner Center, Mclean, Va. 22102
703-734-2262

AMC Potomac Mills 18
2700 Potomac Mills Cir., 886-F3, Woodbridge, Va. 22192
703-490-5151

All showings begin at 10am and tickets are $4-6 depending on location. Check with your local ticket office to confirm times and prices. Remember to arrive on time...these showings have no advertisements or previews in the beginning!

For more info: Visit the Sensory Friendly Films section of the AMC Website or the Autism Society of America