Access Denied

‘Access Denied’ is TAPE’s third Supporting Shorts film which centres on Martha, a twenty-year-old lesbian with cerebral palsy, as she navigates the complex realities of love, identity, and independence. With an insight into Martha’s sharp and self-aware inner voice, the story offers a determined yet joyful portrayal of her daily life – getting ready for a date, facing ableism, and existing as a sexual, social, and confident young woman with feelings and emotions. Set in North Wales, the story follows Martha on a trip to a pride event that proves inaccessible, only for community and solidarity to rise in its place. The film confronts desexualisation, infantilisation, and exclusion while celebrating Martha’s validity as a lesbian, resilience, and the right to take up space.

Access Denied was funded by Arts & Business Cymru.