Oregon Historical Society hosts ‘Deafula’ screening, 1975 film that was the first feature shot in ASL

The film “Deafula” tells the story of a man who comes to realize he’s a vampire. But what makes the 1975 movie unique is that it was the first feature-length 35 mm film to be shot entirely in American Sign Language. The film’s star and director was deaf, and the film created a singular experience for deaf and hard-of- hearing audiences at the time. It was shot in Portland and produced by Oregonian Gary Holstrom.  For hearing audience members, a soundtrack with a translation of the dialogue is part of the original film, along with a music track.

“Deafula” was last screened in 1975 at the Paramount Theatre. The film will be shown for the first time since then to a sold-out crowd at the Hollywood Theater this Thursday. Because of popular demand, the Oregon Historical Society is planning to bring it back for a second screening in early 2024.  Holstrom joins us to talk about the making of the film and its unique place in cinematic history.