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£22.99In a unique twist that combines 70s thrillers with the deaf experience, writer William Mager delves into the world of “deaf rage” to inspire his groundbreaking sign language thriller, Reunion. Mager highlights the challenges faced by deaf individuals in a hearing-centric society, drawing on personal experiences and the frustrations of feeling excluded and misunderstood. Inspired by the likes of Get Carter and The Outfit, Mager infuses his drama with elements of revenge and justice, seen through the lens of a deaf protagonist seeking retribution after a decade in prison.
Reunion breaks new ground by featuring a bilingual thriller that seamlessly switches between British Sign Language (BSL) and spoken English, with a cast predominantly composed of deaf or BSL users. The series follows the story of Daniel Brennan, portrayed by Matthew Gurney, on a quest for vengeance against an enigmatic figure known only as Monroe. As the plot unfolds, viewers witness Brennan’s struggle to deal with a hidden secret and navigate a world that often fails to accommodate the needs of the deaf community.
The critical acclaim for Reunion underscores the show’s impact, with The Guardian praising the performances as “outstanding” and the Independent hailing it as “a groundbreaking show.” Mager’s vision not only sheds light on the challenges faced by the deaf community but also provides a platform for deaf creatives to showcase their talent and contribute to the entertainment industry. By tackling issues like literacy rates in deaf children and the communication barriers that persist in society, Reunion aims to spark conversations and promote inclusivity in storytelling.
Through the lens of Reunion, Mager explores the theme of communication and the struggles faced by each character in expressing themselves. The series reflects the harsh reality that many deaf individuals encounter daily, where they must rely on others to convey their thoughts and feelings due to the lack of accessible services. Mager’s hope for the future is to keep the door open for more deaf creatives to enter the industry, allowing them the opportunity to share their unique perspectives and talents with a wider audience
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