What you need to know
- Apple TV+ movie CODA has been awarded a Seal of Authentic Representation.
- The Ruderman Family Foundation also gave an award to star Marlee Matlin.
Apple TV+ movie CODA has been given a Seal of Authentic Representation by the Ruderman Family Foundation, with star Marlee Matlin also picking up an award.
CODA was joined by more content in being given the Seal of Authentic Representation according to a Variety report. The movie received its seal for casting deaf actors in lead roles in part, with Matlin joined by Daniel Durant. It was Matlin who issued a statement on their personal award, however.
"Full inclusiveness and authentic representation is so important to me," Matlin said in a statement. "My first theatrical film, 'Children of a Lesser God,' was the first to star a Deaf actor in a leading role. Though it has been 34 years, 'CODA' has broken barriers in the feature world just like my first film, this time featuring not one but three Deaf actors in leading roles, playing each authentically. I hope that this recognition will serve as an example of how films can be authentically cast while being entertaining and profitable."
A 2016 study by the Ruderman Family Foundation found that only 5% of top show characters with disabilities were actually played by actors with those disabilities. There's still a lot of work to be done, but content like CODA and the other seal awardees show that things are at least moving in the right direction.
CODA is available to stream on Apple TV+ right now. Want to enjoy it in style? Be sure to check out our list of the best Apple TV deals on the market today.
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