I am on the autism spectrum and admire people who fight for what they can achieve. I also adore true stories. Being Heumann is a vivid one about the days of fighting for disability rights. The director Sian Heder is bound to be recognized for creating a moving realistic portrait. Ruth Madeley plays Judy Heumann, and she is a force of nature. The film is astonishing on all fronts.
The year is 1977 and Judy Heumann is a disability rights activist. Her journey involves an occupation that goes on over three weeks in the San Francisco Federal Building. She rallies protesters with different types of disabilities, ranging from physical to mental, as she fights for accessibility laws and equal rights.
The bill she is struggling to get signed sparks the rollercoaster. The issue is with the funding and the big boss is scared about the buzz the bill could attract. The issues she is fighting for matter, but the stalling is an obstacle that adds fuel to the fire. For individuals who have difficulty walking, need wheelchairs, or other tools to help them navigate their daily lives, Being Heumann displays the challenges for those with disabilities. The film also highlights how these same individuals can shine brightly.
The level of sacrifice makes Being Heumann so astonishing. Judy and her gang huddle and fight with passion. Some governmental entities assist, but others on the frontline are not as cooperative. The common ground is struggle. Despite the tough moments, the film is a revelation. Through times of change and misdirection, Judy does not stop fighting.
As someone on the spectrum, I fully believe in accessibility and providing all the resources possible. Whatever can be offered to help those who are limited to thrive should be available. Being Heumann showcases the element of sacrifice in a realistic way. Madeley’s performance is a tour-de-force. In spite of many obstacles, she fights on.
Mark Ruffalo plays Joseph Califano, the United States Secretary of Health and Human Services. He is a disgruntled man who is part of the governmental hierarchy. However, aspects of his character come to light as the story progresses and he deals with the issues related to people with disabilities. The reporter covering the process is Evan White, played by Dylan O’Brien. I once had the opportunity to do a brief interview with Dylan O’Brien. Through that experience, I learned that he is showing increased interest in taking on more serious roles.
The era in which the fight for disabilities rights was in full swing required resilience. Those in the fights needed a drive to never give up. For Judy, her wheelchair was her weapon. She was dedicated to having accessibility everywhere, including ramps and accessible doors. Fighting for these fundamental building blocks is what I appreciated most in Being Heumann. It takes a strong voice to inspire others to have faith. It takes a strong voice to speak out about what we need. Even those who have limitations can thrive in life when there are opportunities available to them. As an advocate for those with disabilities, I believe everyone should see Being Heumann. There is that message delivered about what sacrifice can lead to. This vibrant film promotes equality to the fullest extent. Being Heumannreminds audiences to never let other people or hard situations keep us down. Thanks to Judy Heumann who demonstrates that when there is a will, there is a way. Four out of four stars.
