From the very first frame of Being Heumann, it's clear that Ruth Madeley's portrayal of Judy Heumann is a tour de force. She navigates her wheelchair through the chaotic streets of New York City, refusing to yield to traffic or circumstance. This opening scene sets the tone for a film about a woman who has spent her entire life fighting for her place in the world—and for the rights of all disabled Americans. It's a bold, unapologetic introduction to a true hero.
A Story of Persistence and Protest
Director Siân Heder, who won an Oscar for CODA, returns with this adaptation of Heumann's memoir. The film is both a historical drama and a biopic, focusing on the pivotal Disability Rights movement of the 1970s. The story centers on 1977, when a peaceful demonstration in San Francisco escalated into a historic sit-in that would change the course of civil rights in the United States. Heder, along with co-writer Rebekah Taussig, handles the material with nuance and humanity, proving once again that she is one of the most thoughtful filmmakers working today.
The Fight for Section 504
Judy Heumann, who contracted polio as a child, has been a relentless advocate for disability rights. Her activism in New York helped pass the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, but by 1977, Section 504—which protects the civil rights of disabled citizens—remains unsigned. President Jimmy Carter's Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare, Joe Califano (played by Mark Ruffalo), initially refuses to sign due to ignorance, then balks at the $3 billion price tag. This forces Judy to escalate the activists' efforts, leading to rallies across the country and ultimately a peaceful occupation of the federal building in San Francisco.
An Ensemble That Shines
While Madeley is the heart of the film, the supporting cast elevates it into a rich historical drama. Antwan Tolliver delivers a standout performance as Brad Lomax, a Black Panther Party member who bridges the civil rights and disability rights movements. Roberta Colindrez plays Joni, Judy's best friend and fellow activist, whose loyalty is matched only by her sharp wit. Dylan O'Brien portrays Evan White, a TV news reporter who starts out skeptical but becomes a powerful ally after embedding with the protestors. Each character brings a unique perspective, and Heder ensures that no one gets lost in the ensemble.
The Sit-In: A Community Forged in Struggle
The film's most compelling sequences occur during the sit-in, where the activists transform the building into a makeshift home. The production design brilliantly captures the era, from the period-accurate décor to the evolving communal spaces. There's even a sex tent—because it was the '70s. The activists face constant threats, including cut phone lines, food shortages, and a terrifying police raid. Madeley's performance in these moments is particularly powerful, as she conveys the weight of leadership and the fear of losing her friends to exhaustion or despair.
A Legacy of Resilience
Being Heumann is more than just a biopic; it's a testament to the power of collective action. The film beautifully captures a moment in history when marginalized communities came together to demand their rights. It's a story of resilience, sacrifice, and the unyielding spirit of those who refuse to be invisible. For fans of Slow Horses or Ben Affleck's directorial debut, this is a must-watch. Siân Heder has crafted a worthy follow-up to CODA, and one of the most important films of the year.
