Join us for films by and about people with disabilities.
ReelFilm is dedicated to promoting awareness and appreciation of the lives, stories, and artistic expressions of people with disabilities. These films put the spotlight on disabled individuals as protagonists, role models, artists and producers, in-front of, and behind the camera. Experience this celebration of cinema, diversity and accessibility.
EZRA follows Max Bernal (BobbyCannavale), a stand-up comedian living with his father (Robert De Niro), while struggling to co-parent his autistic son Ezra (introducing William Fitzgerald)with his ex-wife (Rose Byrne). When forced to confront difficult decisions about their son’s future, Max and Ezra embark on a cross-country road trip that has a transcendent impact on both their lives. Directed by Tony Goldwyn, who also appears in the film alongside additional cast members Vera Farmiga, Rainn Wilson and Whoopi Goldberg, Ezra is an endearing and often funny exploration of a family determined to find their way through life’s complexities with humor, compassion, and heart.
Disabilities Represented: ASD, Neurodivergence
At 25, Leonard Bernstein’s protégé, John Bayless, debuted atCarnegie Hall, launching a 30-year-long recording career as a solo pianist,composer, and improviser. At 54, after a left-brain stroke immobilized hisright side, John is determined to reinvent himself as a one-handed musician andstoryteller.
Disability Represented: Stroke, Paralysis, Physical Disability
Billed as the “female Michael Jordan”, basketball phenom Holdsclaw led Tennessee to three successive championships and became a WNBA number-one pick, Rookie of the Year and All-Star. But her hidden struggle with mental illness led to personal setbacks and a second career as a vocal mental health advocate.
Disabilities Represented: Mental Health
In March 2022, Troy Kotsur became the first Deaf man to win the Best Supporting Actor Academy Award for CODA. During his emotional acceptance speech, Troy paid tribute to his dad, his “hero”. To My Father is the story of Troy’s father’s influence on him beyond the speech that moved millions.
Disabilities Represented: Deafness, Paralysis
More than 20 years ago, an aspiring songwriter, Keith Wasserman, began a creatively obsessive correspondence with music icon Ani DiFranco, believing her reply letters were encoded in the lyrics of her songs. Dear Ani is an odyssey of music, art, and mania.
Disabilities Represented: Mental Illness, Mental Health
Beyond 10+ days of film, art, music, speakers and more, ReelAbilities Houston’s ongoing programs educate and inspire.