To ensure we are accessible, imagineNATIVE requires a closed captioning file. However, if a version of your film exists with open captions embedded, then you can submit that version. During the festival we embed the submitted closed caption files, forcing them to become open captions. All our publicly screened films with in-person screenings will have open captions. Any films posted online will have closed captions, giving the viewer control.
We have included some additional context on captioning:
- Captions are intended to provide an equivalent viewing experience for individuals who are D/deaf or hard of hearing
- There are two types of captions: open and closed. Open captions are embedded into the video file and cannot be turned off, while closed captions (CC) can be turned on or off by the user
- Captions must include all audio sounds including sound effects, speaker IDs, background noises and other relevant elements translated from sound to text
- Captions improve user engagement and contribute to a better watching experience