Millicent Simmonds On 'A Quiet Place's' Impact For Deaf Community
Actress Millicent Simmonds says, “A Quiet Place” is a win for the deaf community and hopes this near-silent film continues to make change.
She stated, “I think it’s important in the deaf community to advocate for and be a representative for this story. A story that might inspire directors and other screenwriters to include more deaf talent and be more creative in the way you use deaf talent. I think that could be a wonderful thing to see. Not only deaf actors but other disabled actors, as well.”
In the movie, there are terrifying creatures that hunt by sound. In order to stay safe, the family must learn to live in silence. So, the cast learned American sign language.
The 15-year-old Simmonds is an advocate the deaf community and wants to use her platforms to inspire others by showing that if you work hard, anything is possible.
She explained, “What I hope is that I can show [my community] you can do anything. Not only become an actor, but a writer, a teacher, a pilot, anything you want to do is possible. Just work hard, and people will recognize that.”