Amazing Performances and a Powerful Story Makes "CODA" a Definite Favorite in 2021

 

So, I decided to stay in and catch a new film that dropped on streaming this weekend, and I gotta say, I was not expecting the experience of this movie to be as moving as it was. I'm talking about the new movie CODA from writer/director Sian Heder, which is streaming now on Apple TV+. If you don't already subscribe to Apple TV+, it's worth considering. There are some really great shows and films that are offered on the platform, award-winning original dramas, and a host of other great content that is well worth the price. CODA is the newest edition to the service, but is also playing (limited) in select theaters. There are multiple ways to view it, the easiest being through the streaming service, but at any rate, this movie is one worth checking out for sure.

CODA is the story of Ruby Rossi (Emilia Jones) who is a Child of Deaf Adults, or a CODA, hence the title.  Ruby has lived a life fully connected to her family, because growing up she had to interpret for them, making her an invaluable asset, as well as just another member of the family. Ruby loves to sing, but she's scared of branching out on her own. Her identity is so intertwined with her role within her family that when opportunity comes for her to follow her dreams, the decision to do so is harder than she anticipates. To make matters worse, when her family's fishing business is threatened, she is forced to choose between her fear of abandoning her parents and pursuing her dreams to go to college for singing.

There is so much to love about this film. From the cinematography, to the tight and effective writing, to the subtle but impeccable score, this movie worked so well for me on so many levels. One of the many things I really loved about this movie was how it cleverly communicates this message that having some sort of "limitation" does not define someone's character or how much a family actually loves each other. The concept of "normality" is challenged here, and the screenplay executes a clear direction that normal is completely subjective, especially when love is found. This is made ever present through the depiction of the Rossi family. I found every moment that they were on screen significantly more compelling and captivating than any other moment in the movie, and this is mostly due to the amazing performances from the cast. 

Troy Kotsur and Marlee Matlin play Ruby's parents, and both actors are deaf in real life, as well as Daniel Durant, who plays Ruby's brother Leo. These characters are everyday folk trying to make their way in the world. It's just tougher when they're unable to really communicate with their community. Ruby's role in the family is not only vital, but you see early on what a heavy burden it is for her to carry. Ruby loves her family more than anything, which is very apparent, but she's also a high school senior and wants more for her life than what staying with her family long-term would mean. That's the major conflict in the film, and the emotional roller coaster the movie takes you on as it traverses this dynamic is so good. This family is hilarious, charming, loving, committed, and you root for them the whole way through. However, as a viewer you also completely understand where Ruby is coming from and that makes for really compelling drama. I read that Emilia Jones took about nine months to extensively learn American Sign Language for the film, as well as how to operate a fishing trawler. Her performance in this movie is really something special, and as the glue to the whole ensemble, she kills it. 

I wouldn't be surprised if this movie makes waves come awards season, because it deserves it. If you're able to check this one out, I highly recommend you do so. CODA is a beautiful film about love, acceptance, relationships, family, what it means to be "normal" if that's even a thing, and the power found within the bonds we make. It's also a great story about pursuing your dreams and what it takes to make those dreams come to fruition. It's got powerful performances, a wonderful production, and is easily one of my favorite films of the year. I was in literal tears by the end, on the verge of sobbing, and that's not an exaggeration. If you've got Apple TV+, check this one out for sure. You'll be happy you did.