Gal Balaban
In a world that often feels fractured, Apple TV’s Being Heumann, which opens in select theaters on November 6 and on Apple TV on November 13, emerges as a powerful reminder of the strength found in community and compassion. Editor Geraud Brisson, ACE, who previously collaborated with director Siân Heder on the Academy Award-winning CODA, recently shared insights on the unique challenges and profound triumphs of bringing this inspiring story to life.
Brisson took us into the complex architecture behind the edit of Being Heumann, which centers on the landmark 1977 sit-in led by disability rights activist Judy Heumann, who later worked in both the Clinton and Obama presidential administrations. He notes that while his prior work with Heder provided a solid foundation for their collaboration, this film demanded a much broader scope in character development and historical scale. “There were quite a few aspects of it that actually felt like a step [up for me]… it was bigger on a lot of levels,” Geraud shares.
The film features an ensemble cast that blends seasoned actors and newcomers, each vital to portraying the diverse identity of the disability rights movement. The electric, chaotic energy of the demonstrations is palpable on screen, with protests packed with overlapping dialogue and multiple focal points. “It was important that you track certain people constantly… and also the scenes were directed in a way that something was going on in the background,” explains Brisson.
At the emotional core of the film is Ruth Madeley’s standout portrayal of Judy Heumann. Geraud praised Madeley’s performance, including how the performer balances fierce strength and vulnerable humanity. “Ruth is amazing at just giving you the little flicker in the eye or a little reaction that feels like nobody would have caught it, even though it was happening in front of everyone, so trying to find those moments that she gave and not to miss them was important,” Brisson told us that Madeley was riveting in capturing the multifaceted reality of a determined and relentless leader in the fight for justice who wouldn’t settle for anything less than the justice her community deserved. “She could be incredibly charming and also incredibly… [with her] eyes on the prize. Sometimes Judy Heumann could be difficult.”These nuanced touches allow audiences to connect with Heumann far beyond her public activism, painting her as a deeply relatable, complex human being.
Being Heumann is both a striking cinematic achievement and an explicit call for viewers to reflect on their own roles in advocating for accessibility and equality. For those looking to deepen their understanding of disability rights, Geraud recommends turning to Judy Heumann’s memoir, also titled Being Heumann. “There’s a lot more that she did… from her childhood to her work in government.” Ultimately, the film serves as both an educational touchstone and a vital reminder of the enduring power of solidarity, beyond the mere issues that affect us as individuals, but rather standing together on a collective front for human justice and equality. As we navigate our own lives, Being Heumann challenges us to look beyond ourselves and stand shoulder-to-shoulder with our peers, no matter how different their lives and issues are from our own.
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