Hollywood’s First Neurodivergent-Affirming Film Screening From Love & Autism

Love & Autism is thrilled to announce ‘An Evening with Ezra,’ a first-of-its-kind neurodivergent-affirming film screening!

This event aims to become the blueprint for inclusive screening practices in Hollywood, advocating for authentic representation of neurodiversity both on and off the screen.

With an ensemble cast starring Robert de Niro, Bobby Cannavale, Rose Byrne, Vera Farmiga, Whoopi Goldberg, and Rainn Wilson, ‘Ezra’ follows a father’s journey co-parenting his autistic son.

Written by Tony Spiridakis, directed by Tony Goldwyn, and introducing autistic actor William Fitzgerald, ‘Ezra’ is more than a film about autism. It’s a groundbreaking step towards inclusive filmmaking, inspired by Spiridakis’ own journey of acceptance with his son, Dimitri.

Neurodivergent-Affirming Ethos

The entire production centered around a neurodivergent-affirming ethos, tapping filmmaker and autistic advocate Alex Plank as the film’s associate producer, creative consultant, and DEI advisor to ensure meaningful representation behind the camera as well as thoughtful accessibility for its titular actor on set.

Plank continues this work for ‘An Evening with Ezra,’ ensuring the inclusivity of production is continued in this event.

Dr. Jenny Palmiotto, an expert in neurodivergent-affirming care and founder of Love & Autism, is the driving force behind this screening, inviting Hollywood to celebrate the autistic and neurodivergent community and confront internalized ableism in traditional screening practices.

The neurodivergent community features prominently in every aspect of the event—from the chefs and musicians to artists and guests.

“Ezra captures the universal themes of love and connection that are often missed within the larger conversation and beliefs about what it means to be autistic,” said Dr. Palmiotto.

“Everyone deserves to be seen and heard, to have a sense of belonging, and be their authentic self. Ezra gets it right, and we want to reflect that in this event.”

An Evening With Ezra: Accommodations and Activities

At ‘An Evening with Ezra,’ inclusivity isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a fundamental aspect of the event’s design. Expect a range of thoughtful accommodations throughout the evening, including a peaceful entrance, grounding areas, sensory experiences, and more.

You’ll have access to noise-canceling headphones and earplugs, swings for movement regulation, and quiet thoughtful reflection spaces available at any point in the evening.

During the screening, you’re invited to drape a colored sash on a neighboring chair to ensure spatial needs are respected discreetly and effectively.

The evening will also prominently feature autistic talent including ‘The Autistic Chef’ Vanessa D’Souza, harpist Evangeline, and violinist Navid. You’ll also get the chance to explore intersectional art installations by neurodivergent artists Dimitri Spiridakis and Maze Creatix.

Following the screening, you can participate in an intimate discussion with key figures involved in the making of the film, including director Tony Goldwyn, writer Tony Spiridakis, and associate producer Alex Plank, on the importance of authentic representation in entertainment.

See you there!

The screening is set to take place at the Writer’s Guild Theater in Beverly Hills on May 21 from 6 PM to 11 PM.

Tickets for ‘An Evening with Ezra’ are available now, with a suggested donation of $95 benefitting Love & Autism.
For more information and ticket registration, visit here.

To learn more about Love & Autism, click here.

See you there, San Diego!