Being Heumann

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Being Heumann

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2h 7m

Comedy

Drama

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87%

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87 Reviews

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Fewer than 50 Ratings

They wouldn't take Judy Heumann's phone calls, so she took their building. In 1977, a young disabled woman (Ruth Madeley) and a scrappy coalition of outsiders decide they've had enough. What begins as one impulsive act becomes the longest occupation of a federal building in American history, as hundreds spontaneously seize government offices and refuse to leave until the bureaucrat in their way (Mark Ruffalo) takes action. Bringing rebellion in all its forms to the hallowed halls, a movement's accidental leaders struggle to find their path forward where none has ever been paved for them. Directed by Academy Award winner Siân Heder ("CODA") and based on true events, "Being Heumann" is the revolutionary, irreverent and deeply human story of the least likely people trying to pull off the impossible and change the lives of millions.

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Critics Consensus

Buoyed by humor, grit, and Ruth Madeley's complex performance, Being Heumann delivers a thoughtful and rousing account of disability rights activism.

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Jeannette Catsoulis

New York Times

2 days ago

Though burdened by good intentions and extremely on-the-nose musical choices, “Being Heumann” is most effective — and affecting — when listening to its characters testify at a congressional hearing.

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Odie Henderson

Boston Globe

2 days ago

3/4

Madeley gives us a complex, unapologetic, and determined woman. She’s not afraid to be unlikable, and her passion for rights regardless of the disability occasionally overwhelms those around her who seek the same goal.

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John Nugent

Empire Magazine

3 days ago

4/5

Telling a story that is by turns exhilarating, sardonic and rousingly radical, this is good, stirring stuff from Heder. And shout-out to whoever thought to put ‘Judy Is A Punk’ by the Ramones on the soundtrack.

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Rachel West

That Shelf

2 hrs ago

Ruth Madeley delivers a standout performance as disability rights activist Judith Heumann in Sian Heder’s heartfelt, if occasionally safe, activism drama Being Heumann

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Alaka Sahani

The Indian Express

23 hrs ago

3.5/5

A gripping account of what happens when people who have been systematically excluded decide that they will no longer wait for someone else to make room for them. Importantly, the film does not reduce its disabled characters to figures of sympathy.

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John Urbancich

JMuvies

1 day ago

3/5

Even with its brimming heart of gold, Heder's latest film plays more like a TV movie trying to find a safe ending than an Oscar winner.

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Scott F

3 days ago

Very well written and directed. Lots of funny moments.

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Gaelynn

6 days ago

It is just so refreshing to see fabulous acting AND authentic storytelling from disabled actors. The 504 Sit-In is one of my favorite stories in American History and they did it justice. The movie was funny, touching, and such an important story to tell. Bravo to all!

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Jamie W

@RT68301407 8 hrs ago

This is an incredible movie that details to struggle for disability rights, while, including poignant and meaningful interpersonal moments and relevant humor. Representation matters, and that was on display here. What a compelling cast. I very much appreciated the retelling of the stories during the testimonies for the hearing. If you’re looking to learn about disability rights, this is a great place to start. I’m so glad this movie exists in the world!

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Melchizedek Franz Noval S

@Melchizedek 9 hrs ago

What an absolutely inspiring and powerful movie. I really enjoyed how it tells the story of Judy Heumann and her fight for disability rights and equality. What makes this film special is how it shows that people with disabilities deserve the same respect, opportunities, and freedom as everyone else. The characters are compelling, the emotional moments feel meaningful, and the story does a great job of showing the struggles and determination behind the movement. I also loved how it highlights teamwork, courage, and standing up against unfair treatment. It reminds us that real change doesn't happen overnight, but people who refuse to give up can make a huge difference. Anyway, this is a heartfelt, uplifting, and thought-provoking film with an important message. It may be a historical drama, but its themes are still relevant today. Definitely worth watching, especially for anyone who appreciates inspiring true stories that celebrates courage, equality, and human dignity.

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Lawrence U

@Bentrider 9 hrs ago

An informative and entertaining look at the history of the ADA. Really quite moving and inspirational.

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Bleu B

@RT85132737 20 hrs ago

Easily the best film that I have seen this year! Inspirational and powerful! I sincerely hope that this film will be acknowledged during awards season. It definitely deserves Best Actress consideration (among other categories).

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Sian Heder

Director

Ruth Madeley

Judy Heumann

Mark Ruffalo

Joseph Califano

Dylan O'Brien

Evan White

Rob Delaney

Congressman Miller

Ray Fisher

Chuck Jackson

Being Heumann: Exclusive Movie Clip - Calls Dodged

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Being Heumann: Trailer 1

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Being Heumann: Teaser Trailer

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Synopsis

They wouldn't take Judy Heumann's phone calls, so she took their building. In 1977, a young disabled woman (Ruth Madeley) and a scrappy coalition of outsiders decide they've had enough. What begins as one impulsive act becomes the longest occupation of a federal building in American history, as hundreds spontaneously seize government offices and refuse to leave until the bureaucrat in their way (Mark Ruffalo) takes action. Bringing rebellion in all its forms to the hallowed halls, a movement's accidental leaders struggle to find their path forward where none has ever been paved for them. Directed by Academy Award winner Siân Heder ("CODA") and based on true events, "Being Heumann" is the revolutionary, irreverent and deeply human story of the least likely people trying to pull off the impossible and change the lives of millions.

Director: Sian Heder
Producer: Sian Heder, David Permut, John W. Beach, Kevin Cleary, Kevin J. Walsh
Screenwriter: Sian Heder, Rebekah Taussig
Distributor: Apple Original Films
Production Co: Apple Original Films
Rating: R
Genre: Comedy, Drama
Original Language: English
Release Date (Theaters): Nov 6, 2026, Limited
Release Date (Streaming): Nov 13, 2026
Runtime: 2h 7m
Sound Mix: Dolby Digital
Aspect Ratio: Digital 2.39:1

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