CODA (2021), which stands for Child of Deaf Adults, is a heartfelt coming-of-age drama that follows Ruby Rossi (Emilia Jones), the only hearing member of her deaf family. Set in a small Massachusetts fishing town, Ruby balances her role as her family’s interpreter with early mornings working on their fishing boat before heading to school. For most of her life, she’s been the bridge between her family and the outside world.
Everything changes when Ruby joins her high school choir and discovers a passion for singing, something her family, who cannot hear her voice, can’t fully experience or understand. Her choir teacher recognizes her talent and encourages her to audition for music school, a decision that would require her to move away and leave her family without their primary means of communication.
As the story goes on, Ruby faces an emotional decision between pursuing her dreams and remaining loyal to her family. She has a strong relationship with her parents and brother, but they struggle with the idea of her chasing a dream they can’t share. Still, they come to understand that supporting her means letting her go.
By the end of the film, Ruby is accepted into music school and makes the decision to leave home. A montage shows her family adapting and learning to communicate with their community on their own, highlighting their personal growth. Ruby’s journey comes full circle, not by leaving her family behind, but by chasing her aspirations backed by the support of her family.
CODA (2021) isn’t a story about disability, but it’s a story about identity, self-expression, and the balance between family responsibility and personal independence. It’s an feel-good film that explores what it means to be heard, understood, and loved.
CODA (2021) Awards:
Academy Awards (94th Oscars) – 3 Nominations, 3 Wins
- Won: Best Picture – Philippe Rousselet, Fabrice Gianfermi and Patrick Wachsberger
- Won: Best Supporting Actor – Troy Kotsur
- Won: Best Adapted Screenplay – Siân Heder
Golden Globes (79th Golden Globes) – 2 Nominations, 0 Wins
- Nominated: Best Motion Picture – Drama
- Nominated: Best Supporting Actor – Motion Picture – Troy Kotsur
British Academy Film Awards (75th BAFTAs) – 3 Nominations, 2 Wins
- Won: Best Supporting Actor – Troy Kotsur
- Won: Best Adapted Screenplay – Siân Heder
- Nominated: Best Leading Actress – Emilia Jones
