Being Heumann

In 1977, disabled activist Judy Heumann (Ruth Madeley) occupied a government building in San Francisco alongside other disabled protesters. They remained there for over three weeks in what would become the longest sit-in of its kind in US history. Their goal was to pressure the government into signing legislation that would put an end to decades of discrimination. Oscar-winning director Siân Heder (CODA) brings this remarkable true story to the screen in Being Heumann, finding humour and humanity in this landmark fight for civil rights.

Starring an ensemble of actors with various disabilities, Heder brings a level of authenticity to this biopic that goes far beyond casting choices. Scenes where characters debate which changes would be the most beneficial effectively underscore that not all disabilities are the same. While cutting kerbs would hugely improve accessibility for wheelchair users, a blind protester argues the drop in height is essential for stopping him from accidentally stepping onto the road. Small additions like these add meaningful layers of depth that illustrate the complexity of their battle while further humanising the characters.

She also does a fantastic job of finding moments of comedy in the situation. While the protesters are essentially locked in a building with no phones, access to medication or even food for some stretches, they’re still young people in the 70s. They smoke, listen to music and even set up a designated sex tent. Strong performances from the core cast serve to make their plight more endearing to audiences, with Madeline Delp giving a standout turn as Kitty, Judy’s optimistic second-in-command.

It’s when the feature arrives at its third act that it ventures into more familiar genre territory. The free-spirited charm and thoughtful discussions surrounding accessibility are put on hold in favour of scenes where characters give rousing speeches and talk about the challenges they’ve faced. Its biggest misstep, though, is how little it digs into Heumann’s character. The script rarely attempts to explore what drives her fierce passion, reducing her to a hero who’s almost as one-note as the uncaring health secretary (Mark Ruffalo) they’re fighting against.

Although it has some shallow character work and evolves into a more conventional biopic during its final third, Heder nevertheless delivers an uplifting outing with Being Heumann. More importantly, it uses authentic depictions of disability to add weight and nuance to these inspirational events.

Andrew Murray

Being Heumann is released in select cinemas on 6^th November 2026.

Watch the trailer for Being Heumann here: