I attended a pre-screening of Heartbreak High at the invitation of Vision Australia, which partnered with Netflix for the event.
The purpose of the screening was to showcase episode one of Season 3 with audio description. Audio description is available to users across streaming platforms, as well as through headsets in cinemas, live theatre, galleries and sporting events.
In screen media, it provides a descriptive layer for people who are vision-impaired or legally blind, playing alongside the dialogue and soundtrack.
As part of a conscious effort to say yes to more opportunities this year, I decided this was one worth taking. As both a writer and a Netflix enjoyer, it was an amazing event to attend, and I knew it would make for a valuable content opportunity too.
I brought two friends with me, and both said they enjoyed the experience.
The event included pre-drinks and mingling, speeches from both Netflix and Vision Australia, and a client sharing their experience with audio description. It was emphasised throughout the evening that these accommodations are essential in creating a more inclusive viewing experience for everyone.
As someone who has gradually lost more vision over time, and therefore relies on audio description more and more, I wholeheartedly agree.
Like many things in the human experience, when you lose access to something you may once have had, you notice. For me, that includes audio description, among other things. As a long-time Netflix user, I remember what it was like when the platform’s library did not offer audio description.
Watching this episode, I found the audio description clear and effective, and I never felt left out of any important information.
One aspect of the screening that surprised me was that the audio-described track was played openly in the cinema. Usually, audio description in cinemas is delivered through a separate headset.
Here, however, the audio-described version played directly on the big screen for everyone in the room. That also meant people who may not usually opt in had the chance to experience what it is like.
After the screening, I asked my friends what they thought of both the episode and the audio description component. Both responded positively, saying they were “excited” and that the event was “insightful” because it allowed them to experience something in a different way.
I can confidently say I agree. I’m looking forward to watching the rest of season 3, and I hope I get to experience more opportunities like this in the future.
Featured image: Alex Bartley (right) and the audio description pre-screening of Heartbreak High. Photos: Alex Bartley
