Mark Ruffalo is poised to take center stage in "Being Heumann," the upcoming feature from Oscar-winning "CODA" filmmaker Sian Heder. The actor has signed on to star alongside Ruth Madeley in this Apple Original Films production, an adaptation of disability rights pioneer Judy Heumann's best-selling eponymous memoir. In this compelling narrative, Ruffalo embodies Joseph Califano, standing in stark contrast to Madeley's portrayal of the title character, Judy Heumann.
"Being Heumann" shines a spotlight on Heumann (played by Madeley), who courageously led over a hundred disabled activists in a defiant 28-day sit-in at the San Francisco Federal Building in 1977. The protesters were steadfast in their resolve to remain until the government enforced Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, a pivotal moment demanding accessibility for all federal spaces.
At the helm of this Apple Studios venture is Heder, who doubles as a producer through her comprehensive agreement with the company. Heder, alongside Rebekah Taussig, co-penned the script, drawing inspiration from Heumann's 2020 memoir. The producing team includes David Permut of Permut Presentations and Kevin Walsh of The Walsh Company, along with Heumann's managers, John W. Beach and Kevin Cleary of Gravity Squared Entertainment.
Heumann, who passed away in 2023 at the age of 75, will be credited as an executive producer, joined by "Being Heumann" co-author Kristen Joiner, Diana Pokorny, and Jim Lebrecht.
Heder's previous collaboration with Apple bore fruit with the Oscar-winning "CODA" in 2021, which garnered accolades for Best Picture, Best Supporting Actor for Troy Kotsur, and Best Adapted Screenplay for Heder's script. She also executive produced the series "Little America."
Ruffalo, a four-time Oscar nominee, has recently starred in "Poor Things" and "Mickey 17." He is set to appear in next year's "Crime 101," alongside Chris Hemsworth and Halle Berry. Ruffalo is represented by Lighthouse Management and Media, UTA, and Keith Klevan.
This cinematic endeavor promises to bring Heumann's inspiring story to life, with Ruffalo's powerful performance adding depth and dimension to an already compelling narrative.
