‘Being Heumann’ Review: Siân Heder’s ‘CODA’ Follow-Up Is an Essential Biopic That’s Not Afraid to Have Some Fun

Viewers may leave theaters feeling that disability stories finally have a mainstream voice, a shift that seems at odds with the film’s modest rollout. The surprise lies in a biopic that mixes earnest advocacy with moments of humor, challenging expectations that serious rights dramas must be solemn. That feeling stems from Siân Heder’s decision to frame activist Judy Heumann’s protest era as both historic and relatable.

The Guardian described the drama as well‑intended but clunky, while Variety praised it as a bold dramatization of the protest that launched the disabled‑rights revolution. IndieWire called the film an essential biopic unafraid to have fun, and AP News noted Heder hopes the movie can achieve what “CODA” did not: alter Hollywood’s treatment of disabled talent. Yahoo reported the director explicitly honors Heumann’s legacy, underscoring the film’s activist purpose.

Critics agree the film succeeds in spotlighting Heumann’s influence, yet questions remain about whether it will translate into lasting industry change. Will studios respond by expanding opportunities for disabled creators, or will the impact be limited to audience awareness? The answer will unfold as the film reaches broader audiences.