First and foremost, on a general note, it's been incredible to see the amount of accurate and respectful deaf representation in cinema recently. From this, Sound of Metal, and the Quiet Place franchise (and hell, even the use of ASL in Godzilla v. Kong), actual deaf actors and the deaf community are getting the representation in cinema they deserve. This movie is no exception.
Further, the predominantly deaf audience I had the privilege of seeing this film with at an advance screening in Chicago was elated to find that captions would be provided ON SCREEN, and not with captiview equipment. Hopefully, this film helps usher this accessibility in as a standard, and not an exception.
Now, focusing on CODA specifically, it's not the greatest film ever made by any means. After a second watch, I'd sooner use the word "alright" than "outstanding". But, it was still great to see deaf representation on screen, and there were plenty of laughs and enough heartstring tugs to maintain an engaging story. It's not groundbreaking, but it's a feel-good story anyone can enjoy.
Further, the predominantly deaf audience I had the privilege of seeing this film with at an advance screening in Chicago was elated to find that captions would be provided ON SCREEN, and not with captiview equipment. Hopefully, this film helps usher this accessibility in as a standard, and not an exception.
Now, focusing on CODA specifically, it's not the greatest film ever made by any means. After a second watch, I'd sooner use the word "alright" than "outstanding". But, it was still great to see deaf representation on screen, and there were plenty of laughs and enough heartstring tugs to maintain an engaging story. It's not groundbreaking, but it's a feel-good story anyone can enjoy.