Siân Heder’s latest film, Being Heumann, returns to the festival circuit after her Oscar-winning movie CODA. The movie opened the 2026 Toronto International Film Festival on Sept. 10. This time, the story centers on Judy Heumann, a key figure in the disability rights movement. The film follows Heumann’s role in a 26-day protest at the U.S. Department of Health, Education and Welfare in San Francisco. The protest was part of a larger push to get the government to enforce the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. The focus was Section 504, which bars disability discrimination in programs and activities receiving federal funding. More than 100 disabled activists took part in the San Francisco occupation, which became the longest occupation of a federal building in U.S. history. Heumann’s story is told through her own autobiography and the documentary Crip Camp which also featured her. Heumann died in 2023 at age 75 after decades of disability rights work.
British actress Ruth Madeley plays Heumann, bringing a fiery and complex performance to the role, according to TheWrap. Madeley’s portrayal shows Heumann as stubborn but also deeply committed to her cause. The film is not just about one person or one event, but it reflects the broader struggle for accessibility and rights.
Heder chose to focus on a tight moment in time rather than giving extensive background. The movie spends most of its time inside the protest building, showing how activists lived and worked during the sit-in. The film includes moments of humor as well as serious political action. There are also musical choices that reflect the era and add to the tone of the story.
The movie is both heartfelt and inspiring, showing how one person’s determination can make a difference. Being Heumann is more than just a story about the past; it also speaks to current issues in society. Heder told Reuters that Heumann's work was about making invisible people visible and creating lasting inclusion.
The Guardian said the film becomes more generic as it gets more serious and turns into a straightforward presentation of its message. The film was made with a cast of mostly disabled actors, which adds authenticity to the portrayal. Supporting roles are played by actors like Madeline Delp and Michael Patrick Thornton. Mark Ruffalo plays HEW Secretary Joseph Califano Jr., while Dylan O’Brien plays reporter Evan White. The Associated Press reported that the production built accessible trailers and added extensive ramps to make the set accessible for the cast.
The movie is set to release in select theaters on November 6 and on Apple TV on November 13. It’s a tribute to Judy Heumann and the many others who fought for equal rights. Apple has confirmed both release dates.
Though some parts of the film feel flat or generic, it still delivers an important message. The movie does not reach the emotional depth that films like Milk did in their storytelling.
Still, Being Heumann is a meaningful effort to bring disability rights history to the screen. It’s a reminder of how far society has come and how much more work remains.
The film is especially important because it brings visibility to disabled actors in leading roles. Being Heumann shows that change can happen when people stand together and fight for what they believe in.
It’s a story of courage, persistence, and hope.