Apple Original Films on Wednesday released a teaser trailer for Being Heumann, the new film from Oscar-winning CODA filmmaker Siân Heder that opens TIFF.
The newly released trailer for Being Heumann serves as an important introduction to the film's exploration of disability rights, prompting viewers to pay attention to Judy Heumann's significant contributions to this movement. Directed by Siân Heder, the film opens at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) next week, revealing the true story behind Heumann’s monumental activism in the 1970s.
On September 2, 2026, Apple Original Films announced the release of the teaser trailer for Being Heumann. This film chronicles the life of Judy Heumann, a dedicated disability rights advocate portrayed by Ruth Madeley, who gained recognition for her role in Doctor Who. The narrative is drawn from Heumann's memoir and focuses on a pivotal moment in 1977 when she led a protest of over 100 disabled individuals who took over the San Francisco Federal Building. This historical sit-in marked the longest occupation of a federal building in U.S. history, highlighting the urgent need for systemic change in accessibility.
The protests organized by Heumann and her community were aimed at enforcing Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, which mandated that all federal spaces become accessible to individuals with disabilities. This crucial moment not only underscored the challenges faced by disabled Americans but also galvanized efforts toward genuine social change. By portraying these events, Being Heumann elevates the conversation around disability rights, raising awareness about issues that are still highly relevant in today’s society.
In addition to Ruth Madeley as Heumann, the film features a talented cast including Mark Ruffalo, who plays the bureaucrat opposing the protestors, alongside Dylan O’Brien, Jon Beavers, Rob Delaney, and Ray Fisher. The film is set to debut in select theaters on November 6, 2026, before becoming available on Apple TV on November 13, 2026. The world premiere at TIFF is scheduled for September 10, 2026, where it will be showcased at Roy Thomson Hall alongside other notable premieres, such as Prima Facie starring Cynthia Erivo.
The release of the teaser trailer for Being Heumann serves as a significant acknowledgment of the vital topic of disability advocacy in film. The film is expected to resonate deeply with viewers who appreciate narratives focused on resilience and social justice. Given Siân Heder's previous success with CODA, which also spotlighted overlooked stories, Being Heumann is likely to engage audiences and spur critical discussions surrounding accessibility issues in the contemporary landscape.
The upcoming premiere of Being Heumann marks an essential addition to the dialogue about disability rights and representation within media. As viewers prepare for its release, the film is poised to inspire and educate audiences about this often-overlooked chapter in American history while cementing the legacy of Judy Heumann.
For those interested, the trailer is available to watch on Deadline, alongside visuals and promotional materials for the film.
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