In My Shoes, made by students at Manurewa Intermediate School in New Zealand in 2023, offers a thoughtful look at how young people experience hearing difference in a school setting. The short explores themes of bullying, stigma and stereotype alongside moments of achievement and belonging. Using sign language and group viewpoint, it invites viewers to consider how perception shapes interaction and opportunity. It sits well within the Focus on Ability International Short Film Festival, contributing a clear, honest student voice about sensory disability and teenage life. Gentle and compelling, it prompts empathy and conversation rather than tidy answers.
It's soundwave travel just as fast at the speed of light, would that disqualify me from the rest of life? I can hear most of the time, but sometimes I wonder how it is for other kids my age who don't have benefits like me. Dear life, I hope to strive in this thing I'm jogging in, and if I don't, I hope I meet people that will help me when I face adversities. My friends, they're pretty cool to me, and try their best to make my days at school fun. Alright class. Adults, they just get it, especially my teacher. Okay, first off, we've got to do a bit more work on our drafts before we make our final copy. Who here has been practicing their shading? Okay, that's a good amount of people. What about their contrast? Okay, well this group looks like they've been paying attention in class. Alright, let's see what you've done. We've done some sketches on what we want our story to look like. Shading's a little hard. You know what's hard? That's not even talking. And others? Well, let's just say they need a bit more time with my kind of language. You wish you could keep up, girl. All I see is machines on your head. Are you from outer space or something? You're right. I do need hearing aids, but it doesn't stop me from coming to school and achieving like everyone else. I can read and write just as good. I can dance. And you know why? Because I can still hear. These machines from outer space are doing a job. Maybe you need one for your brain. Whatever. When you're done being special or something, send me Batman singles to let me know. Batman singles? I can see. Gosh. I know. I just ran out of things to say. To be honest, you're pretty good at drawing. Not everyone sees me for who I am. But the ones that do makes life easier. I've been showing how to live for something special. I may have trouble hearing, but that's what makes me unique. I like who I am. I like who I'm becoming. Focusing on the ability to explore life is where I can expire those in my shoes. Until next time, watch this space. .
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In My Shoes by Manurewa Intermediate School (2023)
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In My Shoes
by Manurewa Intermediate School - SCHOOL SHORT
