The filmmakers behind Inside Out were honored this past weekend (April 22-23) during the first annual AutFest International Film Festival, for Autism awareness. Director Pete Docter and producer Jonas Rivera were on-hand for a memorable afternoon, complete with a screening of the film and an audience Q&A.
Prior to the event, we had the opportunity to speak with Pete and Jonas about their upcoming honor as well as the early development of the film — which can be heard in episode 053 of the Pixar Post Podcast.
Thanks to our good friend, Paulina, who was able to attend the AutFest on our behalf we were given a first-hand look at this incredible event. Read below for her complete review of the event, including some great photos and the complete video of the Q&A session.
Paulina’s wrap-up — This past Sunday (April 23, 2017), I was fortunate in attending a screening of Inside Out at the AutFest International Film Festival. The ambiance of the sensory-friendly screening of Inside Out (which kicked off the event) was calm and friendly with the volume decreased and lights only slightly dimmed allowing for audience movement and vocalization. The audience consisted of all ages, many of who were viewing Inside Out for the first time.
After the film had ended, director Pete Docter and producer Jonas Rivera entered the theater for their scheduled Q&A session (see video on Facebook, here). As they made their way to the stage, the audience rose out of their seats and applauded with excitement — both humbled and touched with the outpouring of admiration shown to them.
Throughout the Q&A, you could see the amount of respect and admiration the duo have for each other as well as the immense gratitude they have for their team at Pixar Animation Studios. One of the highlights of the event was when the beloved actor, Mr. Ed Asner joined Pete and Jonas on stage to present them with the AutFest Vanguard Award.
The evening ended with a photo and autograph opportunity in the theater lobby for the numerous fans. As fans approached Pete and Jonas, you could hear the words of praise and appreciation for Inside Out and for shining a positive light on Autism.
Pete, Jonas, and Ed Asner were all extremely gracious with their time, each with beaming smiles and positive words to share. As Pete and Jonas were leaving, I had the opportunity to thank them for all the great work and for the joy Pixar films bring to me. Pete, being a humble man, thanked me for appreciating their work and said, “We don’t do this for awards, but when given this (holding up the AutFest Vanguard Award), it’s great and an honor.” Well, the honor was all mine.
Thanks again to Paulina for the great coverage, photos and for sharing your experience.
