I wanted to watch the movie Child of Deaf Adults (CODA) for a long time, so I chose to write a review on it as well. And, the movie didn’t disappoint. It is one of the best, and funniest movies I’ve seen in a long time. Three production companies: Vendome Pictures, Pathé Films, Picture Perfect Federation, produced this movie about making choices and taking risks.

“CODA” is based on the French movie “La Famille Belier” by Eric Lartigau from 2014. At the moment “CODA” is only available to watch on Apple TV+.

Even though this movie is a movie about a character who hears, while her parents do not hear. Ruby (Emilia Jones) is a CODA character who does hear. Her role in the movie begins in a choir class at school. The choir teacher Bernardo Villalobos (Eugenio Derbez), sees Ruby’s talent, and encourages her to audition for Berklee College of Music. However, Ruby’s parents and brother, Leo (Daniel Durant), cannot hear so her father, Frank (Troy Kotsur), and mother, Jackie (Marlee Matlin), are not too keen on that idea since they need her on their fishing boat to listen to the radio and translate what hearing people say. This is essential to keep their family business running.

The actors were cast appropriately, they use actual deaf actors, to act in these challenging roles.  Jones is perfect for the role of Ruby. In fact, Jones IS Ruby and I can’t imagine anyone else playing that character. Kotsur is nominated for an Oscar as a best supporting actor, playing Ruby’s father. Matlin, Derbez, and all the other actors are outstanding too; they add to the quality and believability of the movie. 

One great thing about this movie is that Ruby’s romance with her crush, Miles (Ferdia Walsh-Peelo), is not a huge deal in the movie which makes sense because “CODA’s” story isn’t about romance. Miles is a side character and the focus is on Ruby’s choices in life.

Another good thing about the movie is that the humor in the movie is perfect. It’s especially funny when Ruby finds her parents embarrassing, something in which most teens can relate. What adds to the humor is that since Ruby’s parents are deaf they sometimes forget that even though they can’t hear Ruby, other people can. A good laugh is guaranteed.

A movie like this that teaches you to be yourself and that making your own decisions is important, because most people can relate to feeling lost sometimes. This is where the movie shows that you have to take control of your life and do what you want. This lesson is super important as it, in a nice way, tells you to stop relying or let other people rely on you, and start living your own life.

This movie would be a fantastic recommendation for people who struggle with making their own decisions rather than simply going along with the crowd. “CODA” teaches the art of being independent and/or self-reliant. 

This is a funny, powerful, and amazing movie that is a million recommendations worthy.

The MPAA rating is PG-13.