Blindness and Low Vision Studies
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As we approach the end of October, we would like to recognize Blindness Awareness Month and celebrate the importance of awareness, accessibility and inclusion. The Department of Blindness and Low Vision Studies at the Pennsylvania College of Optometry on Drexel University’s Elkins Park Campus, invites you to join us in celebrating and raising awareness.
In honor of the month, we’re rolling out the red carpet and sharing some of our "BLVS Blockbuster Picks" — movies and documentaries that feature blindness, low vision, accessibility, advocacy, and the lived experiences of people who are blind or have low vision.
Grab some popcorn and add these to your watchlist:
BRAILLED IT (2026)
Follow students who are blind or have low vision as they compete in the National Braille Challenge. Experience the competition from their perspective while exploring the power of braille literacy, friendship, and representation.
Possibilities (2024)
A documentary exploring blindness through the experiences and perspectives of those who are blind. Consider how expectations, opportunities, and attitudes can shape the lives of people with visual impairments.
Crip Camp: A Disability Revolution (2020)
Take a trip through disability history with this acclaimed documentary about a summer camp that helped bring together future leaders of the disability rights movement. The history of disability rights is also the history behind many of the protections, expectations, and opportunities that shape our work today as blindness and low vision professionals.
Pick of the Litter (2018)
Follow a group of puppies as they begin their journey toward becoming guide dogs. Beyond the irresistible puppies, the film provides a behind-the-scenes look at the extensive training and partnership involved in guide dog work.
The Eyes of Me (2009)
This documentary follows four teenagers who are blind as they navigate school, friendships, independence, and growing up. It offers a glimpse into the everyday experiences of young people who are blind in their own voices and on their own terms.
Blind Woman Who Saw Rain (2014)
This neurological story and media report tells the story of Milena Channing (also known as Milena Canning), a woman from Scotland who lost her primary vision after a stroke at age 29 yet retained the ability to see moving objects.
Guiding Emily (2023)
After losing her sight in a sudden rock-climbing accident, Emily struggles to adapt to her new life alone. Concurrently, an energetic puppy named Garth struggles through intense training to become a guide dog. Through parallel journeys of overcoming self-doubt, the two eventually pair up, forming a powerful bond.
Be Kind, Rewind and Reflect
As you watch these BLVS Blockbuster Picks, think beyond the storyline. How is blindness represented? Whose perspective is centered? What assumptions about blindness or disability are challenged or reinforced? And, what might you take from the film into your own future practice?
Do you have a favorite movie or documentary about blindness or low vision we missed? Send us your recommendation at salus_communications@drexel.edu — we’re always looking for something to add to the queue.
