Superfest 2013: The Dissies was a stupendous hit with full-to-the-rafters attendance. Folks representing every aspect of the disability community assembled in San Francisco’s Mission District to hoot, holler and heckle at some of the most abysmal representations of disability in film. Attendees enjoyed beer, wine and popcorn and mingled before and after the show, further strengthening their ties.
This year, the audience voted for and awarded seven films with a Dissie because of the films’ ridiculous portrayal of disabilities:
- Worst Portrayal of a Disability by a Nondisabled Actor: Gene Hackman, “Young Frankenstein”
- So Sweet (That They’re Not): Heidi, “Heidi”
- The Most Amazing Miracle: Allan Mann, “Monkey Shines”
- The Most Tragic: “Million Dollar Baby”
- The Worst Disabled Villain: Dr. Strangelove, “Dr. Strangelove”
- Crips Gone Wild!: Danny, “Blind Dating”
- Hey – Only we can Laugh at that!: “The Ringer”
The house was packed and full of great energy. Already we’ve received many kind words and enthusiastic accolades, and the response to the survey we sent to attendees has been very positive. It was truly a diverse community event, and it can only grow from here.
Here’s a link to a short excerpt from the event, featuring LightHouse Board President Josh Miele.
Next year the LightHouse will collaborate again on Superfest with the Paul K. Longmore Institute on Disability and are in discussions to shape the format and themes of next year’s event. We look forward to Superfest 2014 and hope to see you there.
