Do Deaf People Like the Movie “A Quiet Place”?

The reception to the 2018 horror film A Quiet Place has been mixed within the deaf community. While many find the film to be innovative and well-represented, others argue that its portrayal of deafness and reliance on sound for tension and horror may not fully capture their lived experiences.

Deaf Perspectives on the Film

As someone who is hearing and a former sign language interpreter, I understand that deaf individuals have diverse opinions about this film, just as hearing viewers do. For some, the mere fact that deafness is being portrayed in a movie at all is a positive development. However, many would prefer to see real deaf actors in the roles instead of hearing actors attempting to portray deafness. I agree with this perspective for the most part.

While some deaf individuals object to the cochlear implant subplot in the film, it is a real issue that deaf people discuss, with opinions divided. Some support the use of cochlear implants, while others oppose them. I have firsthand experience with both viewpoints, as well as with recipients themselves. The fact that the parents in the film knew some sign language added context and made the subplot less concerning for me.

Media Portrayals and Realism

Any portrayal of deafness in film or television often begins with the writers, actors, and directors conducting a brief learning process on the deaf world, which then can be expanded with fictional elements without fact-checking. This was evident in my experience as an actor in a CBS TV movie about a deaf boy who was initially thought to be mentally disabled. The writer, Your Name is Jonah, was motivated to get things right, although there were some inaccuracies because the hearing writer hadn't immersed themselves fully in the deaf world.

Another example of an improvement in media representation is an episode of the TV series Barney Miller, where a deaf actress, Phyllis Frelich from Children of a Lesser God, portrayed a deaf prostitute. Not only was she deaf, but there was an on-set interpreter, and the story used her deafness in a real yet comedic way, with all cast members treating her with respect.

Conclusion and Future Prospects

While A Quiet Place has its strengths and innovative elements, it is important for filmmakers to continually strive for greater accuracy and inclusivity in their depictions of deafness. By engaging deaf actors, interpreters, and consultants, they can ensure that future portrayals are both realistic and respectful.

As technology advances and cultural understanding grows, the future of deaf representation in film looks increasingly promising. Filmmakers and storytellers must continue to bridge the gap between fiction and real-world experience, ensuring that deaf characters are portrayed not just as plot devices, but as fully realized individuals with complex identities and emotional depth.