The Silent Child

Inspired by real-life events, this Oscar-winning short follows Libby, a profoundly deaf child nearing her first day at school. Her emotionally distant, overwhelmed mother and workaholic father seek out a quick fix to make their 'broken' child more equipped to handle the real world.

Libby has lived in a world of silence but a fresh-faced social worker Joanne helps Libby transform. A once withdrawn four-year-old suddenly feels connected to the world and, over a short period of time, Joanne and Libby's relationship blossoms. As the story emerges, it becomes clear that Libby is not the one who needs to be fixed.

This film is presented with English subtitles throughout the film at the request of the filmmakers due to the extensive use of sign language and to make the film fully accessible to deaf audiences.

Winner of Best Live Action Short Film at the 2018 Academy Awards. Winner of the Jury Prize for Best Film at the Sydney Indie Film Festival.

"Realistic and moving, with beautiful cinematography, this is a stirring call for awareness of the plight of deaf schoolchildren." - Peg Aloi , Arts Fuse