UPDATED JUNE 2019: For a child with sensory issues, seeing a movie at a theater with high volumes, bright screens, and big crowds can be scary and unpleasant, taking all the fun out of what is supposed to be a great family activity. To make sure more families can enjoy the movies, many theaters across New York show sensory-friendly movies and shows that dim the lights, lower the volume, and sometimes have support staff available to help if kids get anxious. The Autism Society has partnered with AMC Theatres in New York City, Westchester and Rockland counties, and on Long Island to offer Sensory Friendly Films.
These special screenings feature new family movies (rated G, PG or PG13) in a toned-down version of the movie theater experience–and audience members are encouraged to get up, walk around, dance, and make as much noise as they please. Weekend shows are offered on the second and fourth Saturdays of every month.
Sensory-Friendly Films are shown at the following participating theaters in New York City, the NYC suburbs (including Westchester, Rockland, and Bergen counties), and on Long Island.
Movie Theaters offering Sensory-Friendly Films in NYCAMC Bay Plaza Cinema 13 AMC Fresh Meadows 7 AMC Magic Johnson Harlem 9
Movie Theaters offering Sensory-Friendly Films in the NYC SuburbsAMC Crystal Run 16 AMC Palisades 21
Movie Theaters offering Sensory-Friendly Films on Long IslandAMC Levittown 10 AMC Shore 8 AMC Loews Stony Brook 17 |
For an up-to-date list of upcoming screenings and information on how to request these screenings at a different theater, visit amctheatres.com/sff.