Massachusetts Premiere— Flying Lessons

Join us at the West Newton Cinema for the Massachusetts premiere of “Flying Lessons,” a deeply moving film that explores family dynamics, personal growth, and identity. The film follows two estranged sisters who reunite after their mother’s sudden death: Beatrice, an autistic high school student with a dream of learning to fly, and Talia, a musician who is initially reluctant to help her. Co-written and starring local actress Julia Schanker, “Flying Lessons” offers a unique and underrepresented perspective on grief and familial relationships.

“Flying Lessons” is a prime example of neurodiverse filmmaking. Julia is autistic, and the film’s approach included adapting the script into manga for her, making the process more engaging and accessible.

About the Film:

Runtime: 1 hour 25 minutes
Awards: Best Young Actress (Chelsea FF); Best Supporting Actress (Hunter Mountain FF & Golden Door FF)
Website: https://flyinglessonsfilm.com/
Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N7mPQRpuRrQ

The screening will begin at 6pm. Stay after the screening for an insightful panel discussion featuring:

Sarah Waldron – Director of “Flying Lessons.” Based in Iowa, Sarah combines narrative, documentary, and experimental styles, focusing on queer women’s stories. Her diverse background includes film studies in India, work with Filmmakers Without Borders in Honduras, and film consulting in China.

Julia Schanker (she/her) – Star of “Flying Lessons.” A Newton resident, Julia recently graduated from a post-high school transition program and is now in a day program. She is active in orchestra, theater group, and after school arts programs. Julia was adopted from China when she was 5 by Sarah’s godparents. A few years later, Julia’s father died unexpectedly. Sharing and processing this experience together was the inspiration for the film.

Eileen Crehan – Assistant Professor at Tufts University and head of the Crehan Lab. Dr. Crehan’s research centers on social development in autism spectrum disorder, aiming to enhance quality of life for neurodiverse individuals through evidence-based practices.

Rhoda Bernard – Founding Managing Director of the Berklee Institute for Accessible Arts Education and the Assistant Chair of the Music Education Department at Berklee College of Music. Under Dr. Bernard’s leadership, the Institute is “a catalyst for the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in all aspects of performing and visual arts education.” She is currently writing a book on accessible arts education that will be published in the summer of 2025.

Tickets: $20 regular ticket; $15 student ticket (Both include screening and panel discussion)
Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/massachusetts-premiere-flying-lessons-tickets-1003354479257?aff=oddtdtcreator

Discover how the film was made with a combination of dedicated artists, generous contributions, and a tight budget. The team’s commitment and creativity brought this project to life!

Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with the filmmakers and experts in the field. We look forward to an enriching discussion on the film’s impact and creative process.