CODA

Plot
CODA, directed by Sian Heder and released in 2021, is a heartwarming and powerful drama that tells the story of Ruby Rossi, a bright and talented teenager who must navigate the complexities of her deaf family's life and her own aspirations. The film opens with an intimate and unassuming introduction to Ruby's daily life in Gloucester, Massachusetts. Ruby, played by Marlee Matlin's real-life daughter, Emilia Jones, has grown up surrounded by her deaf parents, Frank and Jackie, and her older brother, Leo. Her mother, a proud and strong matriarch, and her father, a skilled fisherman and music lover, are both passionate about their fishing business and their cultural identity. Ruby, who is a CODA (Child of Deaf Adults), is a different story. She is the only hearing member of the family, and her unique position in the family creates a rich dynamic. Ruby communicates in American Sign Language (ASL) with her parents, but she also lip-reads and speaks in English, which often puts her in a privileged position. As the film progresses, it becomes clear that the Rossis' fishing business is in trouble. The boats that they used to work on have been sold, and the Port Commissioner is threatening to remove the last remaining dock in Gloucester, which would leave the family without a livelihood. Frank, who is fiercely passionate about his family's cultural heritage and the fishing business, becomes increasingly agitated and disoriented by the threat to their way of life. Meanwhile, Ruby begins to blossom as a singer. Her love of music is deep-seated, and her talent is undeniable. We see Ruby performing in a high school choir, her voice soaring as she sings with abandon. Her music teacher, Mr. Franco, recognizes her exceptional talent and encourages her to pursue her passion. However, Ruby's pursuit of music creates tension in her family. Her parents are skeptical of her decision to prioritize music over the family business, and they worry that she will abandon them in their time of need. The conflict between Ruby's love of music and her loyalty to her family becomes a central theme of the film. Throughout the story, Ruby struggles to reconcile her desire for independence and self-expression with her responsibilities to her family. She is caught between the old way of life and the new world she is discovering. Her days are filled with anxiety and stress, as she navigates the expectations of her parents and the demands of her own dreams. As the tension in the family builds, Ruby begins to lose touch with her own identity. She becomes increasingly isolated and withdrawn, unsure of how to make her parents understand her needs and desires. Her relationships with her family members - particularly her deaf mother, Jackie - are strained and painful. She feels caught in the middle, torn between two worlds that seem impossible to reconcile. The film's climax is both poignant and powerful. Ruby's mother, Jackie, faces a new challenge, the severe attack of her and subsequent surgery and medical issues leaves Ruby in a desperate situation to juggle school, helping the family and nurturing her voice. In the end, Ruby's love of music ultimately wins out, but not before she faces hard choices and a tough confrontation with her parents. Ultimately, CODA is a story about love, family, and identity. Ruby's journey is both familiar and extraordinary, and her story will resonate with anyone who has ever felt caught between worlds. The film is a tribute to the Deaf community, which has too often been marginalized and erased from mainstream culture. The portrayal of Ruby's experiences as a CODA is authentic, nuanced, and powerful. As the story draws to a close, we see Ruby emerging as a confident and independent young woman, her music no longer a secret but a source of strength and pride. The film ends with Ruby's performances in the high school choir, her heart full of joy and purpose.
Reviews
Camille
Having seen the French original, "La Famille Bélier," a few years ago, the American remake naturally lacks some of the initial novelty. However, I still found it deeply enjoyable. The filmmakers approached the story with genuine sincerity, successfully transplanting it to an American setting and evoking emotions on par with the original. The choir performance without sound was a standout scene for me; the inability to appreciate your own child's talent is perhaps one of the most heartbreaking things imaginable. Even more painful is the prospect of having to stifle that talent. Ultimately, the parents choose to let go. While the ending might be a bit too idealistic, isn't it the outcome we all hoped for?
Alexander
That duet, where the world suddenly goes silent from the family's "hearing" perspective, is an unexpectedly powerful sequence.
Phoenix
If Ouyang Nana could get in, she definitely can.
Simon
A well-made, feel-good movie, <CODA>'s unique charm lies in the coming-of-age story of the only hearing child in a deaf family. The performances by several genuinely deaf actors further enhance the film. Although it's a remake, it still won the Grand Jury Prize and Audience Award at this year's Sundance Film Festival and was acquired by the newly established "Apple TV+" for $25 million, demonstrating its market potential.
Madison
When "Little Miss Sunshine" meets Glee, the atypical family and teenage dream clash to create a gentle, natural sound. It's no wonder it swept Sundance and had its rights bought by Apple at a sky-high price. CODA = Children of Deaf Adults, the hearing generation growing up in deaf families. Because they have served as a bridge between their families and the outside world since childhood, they bear burdens beyond their age, shuttling between the worlds of sound and silence - until they begin to pursue their own dreams and lives. Perhaps the most touching moment in the whole film is when the father touches his daughter's vocal cords and "listens" to her sing, so touching.
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