CODA was one of my absolute favourite films from last year (see my 4-star review here), and I’ve continued to champion it to anyone who’ll give me a moment, because it’s a special film from director Siân Heder and, even more amazing, it’s now an Academy Award Best Picture nominee and Apple Original Films are screening it for free from Friday, February 25 through Sunday, February 27 at select cinemas!
Starring Emilia Jones as Ruby, she’s the sole hearing member of a deaf family – a CODA, child of deaf adults. Her life revolves around acting as interpreter for her parents (superbly portrayed by Marlee Matlin and Troy Kotsur) and working on their fishing boat with her Dad and brother (Daniel Durant), before heading off to school every day. But after Ruby joins the school choir, her love for singing and music, and a partnership with Miles (Ferdia Walsh-Peelo), plus encouragement from her tough-love choirmaster (Eugenio Derbez), means she’s torn over what she wants in her life, and how to continue supporting her family.
CODA is the first motion picture starring a predominantly Deaf cast to be honored with a Best Picture Oscar nomination, and with a nomination for Best Supporting Actor, for Troy Kotsur, he’s the first Deaf male actor to ever be nominated for an Oscar. Additionally, the film received an Academy Award nomination for Best Adapted Screenplay, marking the first for writer/director Siân Heder.
The film will be available to screen free-of-charge in premium theaters in major cities across the US, with three daily showtimes that will be available for audiences to attend on a first come, first served basis. Free screenings will also be available in London. All screenings will be open-captioned. Audiences at a special showing in Los Angeles will have the opportunity to be part of a live Q&A with the cast and writer/director Heder, which will have translators in ASL.
critical popcorn 