Cinempatico Fest launches call for films to highlight disability

A new initiative, Cinempatico Fest, is opening its call for entries, aiming to bring the experiences of people with disabilities to the forefront through the power of film. The festival seeks to combat the lack of accessible spaces and dignified representation by showcasing cinematic works that illuminate the daily lives of individuals with disabilities.

Patricio Ledesma, the festival's general director, was inspired to create the event after witnessing his grandfather's struggles with arthritis and the societal lack of accessibility and inclusive culture. "I thought about how I could contribute something, and since I like cinema, I said, why not do something with it?" Ledesma recalled. This personal motivation led to the creation of a festival dedicated to visualizing disability in Mexico and globally.

The response to the call for submissions has been significant, with over 250 short and feature films received from more than 20 countries, including Mexico, Brazil, Colombia, Germany, Spain, Portugal, and Argentina. While Ledesma noted a prevalence of stories focusing on mobility impairments, the festival also welcomes narratives addressing mental health conditions such as anxiety disorders and autism spectrum disorder.

Financially, Cinempatico Fest is being driven by Ledesma's personal resources, supported by volunteers, his girlfriend, and friends. The festival is scheduled to take place from September 18-20 at Cinemubi in Guanajuato capital. This initiative arrives at a time when, according to INEGI data, over 7 million people in Mexico live with some form of disability or mental health condition, highlighting the critical need for platforms like Cinempatico Fest to foster understanding and visibility.