CODA is a 2021 American drama film directed by Siân Heder. It is an English-language remake of the 2014 French-Belgian film La Famille Bélier. The film stars Emilia Jones as Ruby Rossi, the only hearing member of a deaf family, also known as a CODA (Child of Deaf Adults).
The story revolves around Ruby's passion for singing and her dilemma of choosing between pursuing her dreams at Berklee College of Music or staying with her family to help with their fishing business. CODA won three Oscars at the 94th Academy Awards), including Best Picture, Best Supporting Actor, and Best Adapted Screenplay. It is the first film produced and/or distributed by a streaming service, the first Sundance film, and the first film featuring predominantly deaf actors in leading roles to win the Academy Award for Best Picture.
Plot
CODA (2021) follows the story of Ruby Rossi, the only hearing member of a deaf family, known as a CODA (Child of Deaf Adults). She grapples with the decision to pursue her passion for singing at Berklee College of Music or to support her family's fishing business. The film explores her internal conflict and the challenges she faces as she navigates her dual identity and aspirations.
Full Cast
- Emilia Jones as Ruby Rossi
- Marlee Matlin as Jackie Rossi
- Troy Kotsur as Frank Rossi
- Daniel Durant as Leo Rossi
- John Fiore as Tony Salgado
Director: Siân Heder
Writer: Siân Heder
Distributor: Apple TV+
Genre: Drama
Release Date: August 13, 2021
Themes
The film delves into themes of identity, family dynamics, pursuing one's dreams, and the deaf experience within a hearing family.
Reception
CODA received positive reviews from critics, with praise for its representation and the cast'sperformances, particularly Emilia Jones' portrayal of Ruby. The film won three Oscars at the 94th Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Supporting Actor, and Best Adapted Screenplay.
Challenges Faced During Production
The production of CODA faced the challenge of authentically representing the deaf community and ensuring an accurate portrayal of deaf culture and experiences.
Settings, Visual Styles, and Techniques
The film is set in a small fishing town, and it employs a naturalistic visual style to capture the everyday life of the characters. The use of American Sign Language (ASL) and sound design techniques are notable aspects of the film's presentation.
Trivia and Fun Facts
- CODA is an English-language remake of the 2014 French-Belgian film La Famille Bélier.
- It is the first film produced and/or distributed by a streaming service to win the Academy Award for Best Picture.
- The movie features a predominantly deaf cast in leading roles, a rare occurrence in mainstream cinema.