Welcome to our panel “German Sign Language in Short Film – Inclusion from the Start”. Together with experts and filmmakers, we explore German Sign Language (DGS) as a unique visual language with its own grammar, culture, and aesthetics—offering more than translation. Considering DGS from script to post-production not only removes barriers early but also unlocks creative potential for storytelling, cinematography, and acting. Let’s discuss how inclusion can enrich films and make stories accessible to more people.