As I navigated through Toronto, I couldn’t help but notice the curb cuts that allowed my suitcase to roll effortlessly onto the street. These seemingly minor accommodations are now ubiquitous, yet their existence was once hotly contested. The struggle for such accessibility features was spearheaded by activists like Judith Heumann whose legacy is the focus of the new biopic Being Heumann directed by Siân Heder.
Heumann, who passed away in 2023, was a formidable force in the disability rights movement from the 1970s onward. Her story is brought to life in Heder’s follow-up to the Oscar-winning Coda a film that made history by centering disability and being rewarded for it. Being Heumann chronicles Heumann’s early political battles, particularly her role in the 1977 sit-in at the San Francisco office of the US Department of Health, Education, and Welfare.
The 1977 Sit-In: A Turning Point in Disability Rights
The film’s middle section is its most compelling, focusing on the nearly month-long sit-in led by Heumann. This protest was a pivotal moment in the fight for disability rights, as activists demanded the implementation of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 which had been stalled for years. Heder captures the energy and ingenuity of the protesters, who turned the government office into a makeshift community, complete with a ‘sex tent’ and vending machine feasts.
The ensemble cast, largely composed of disabled actors, brings a raw and authentic energy to the film. Heder’s direction allows the characters to shine, avoiding the pitfalls of turning them into mere symbols of their cause. The film’s strength lies in its ability to humanize the activists, showing their determination, humor, and camaraderie in the face of adversity.
The Challenges of Biographical Filmmaking
One of the film’s challenges is balancing historical accuracy with dramatic intrigue. Heder navigates this carefully, though the film does flatten into a more conventional narrative in its latter stages. The shift from the rebellious spirit of the sit-in to a more straightforward recitation of facts is noticeable. While the film successfully educates the audience about the importance of the disability rights movement, it misses an opportunity to delve deeper into Heumann’s personal motivations and struggles.
Ruth Madeley who plays Heumann, delivers a powerful performance, capturing the activist’s grit and determination. However, the script limits her to a single emotional register, focusing primarily on Heumann’s tenacity. Supporting roles by Mark Ruffalo and Dylan O’Brien add a touch of Hollywood glamour, but the film’s heart lies with the lesser-known actors who bring their lived experiences to their roles.
The Impact of Disability Representation in Film
Being Heumann is a significant step forward in disability representation in film. Heder’s commitment to casting disabled actors is commendable and long overdue. The film serves as a reminder of the talent and potential that has been shamefully underemployed in the industry. By centering disability, Heder continues the work she began with Coda pushing for greater inclusion and representation.
The film’s release comes at a time when the fight for disability rights is far from over. As societal struggles continue, Being Heumann serves as both a historical account and a call to action. While it may not reach the emotional heights of Milk or the narrative depth of Coda it is a worthy tribute to a remarkable woman and her enduring legacy.
