Apple Original Films has released the teaser trailer for Being Heumann, the upcoming film from Oscar winning filmmaker Siân Heder, known for CODA. The film is based on the true story of disability rights advocate Judy Heumann and is set to have its world premiere as the opening film of the Toronto Film Festival.
Ruth Madeley, known for her work in Doctor Who, plays Judy Heumann in the film. The story is based on Heumann’s memoir and focuses on an important period in her life in 1977, when she became one of the leading figures in a major disability rights protest in the United States.
The film follows Heumann as she leads more than 100 disabled people in taking over the San Francisco Federal Building. What begins as a protest develops into a 28 day sit in. The action became the longest occupation of a federal building in U.S. history.
The protesters were demanding that the government enforce Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. The law required federal spaces to be accessible to people with disabilities. However, the protesters faced resistance from government officials and remained inside the building until their demands were addressed.
The teaser also introduces Mark Ruffalo, who plays a government bureaucrat who stands against the protesters. Dylan O’Brien, Jon Beavers, Rob Delaney and Ray Fisher are also part of the cast.
The story focuses not only on the political fight but also on the people involved in the protest. As the sit in continues, the protesters form a strong community while dealing with pressure and uncertainty. Their decision to remain together becomes an important part of the story.
Being Heumann will make its world premiere in Toronto on September 10 at Roy Thomson Hall. The film will then open in select theaters on November 6 before becoming available on Apple TV on November 13.
The Toronto Film Festival will run from September 10 to 20. Along with Being Heumann, the festival will also premiere Prima Facie, starring Cynthia Erivo, and The Assassin(s) from Korean filmmaker Hur Jin ho on September 10.
With its focus on Judy Heumann’s life and the 1977 protest, Being Heumann brings attention to an important chapter in the history of the disability rights movement.
