Apple TV+ is set to release an upcoming documentary focused on a pivotal protest that resulted in a university appointing its first Deaf president. This project is led by a Deaf actor, filmmaker, and advocate, along with an acclaimed documentary director.
The documentary titled Deaf President Now! chronicles the significant university protest that established the first Deaf president and contributed to the progression of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Directed by Deaf actor, filmmaker, and advocate Nyle DiMarco in collaboration with David Guggenheim, this film promises to be impactful.
Apple has provided a brief overview of the film:
“Deaf President Now!” relays the events of the eight days of remarkable protests at Gallaudet University in 1988, sparked by the board of trustees’ decision to appoint a hearing president over several highly qualified Deaf candidates. Following a week of demonstrations, rallies, and boycotts, the students achieved victory when the hearing president resigned, leading to beloved dean Dr. I. King Jordan being named the first Deaf president of the university.
This protest represented a key moment in civil rights history, fostering an influence that reached far beyond Gallaudet University and helped lay the groundwork for the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). “Deaf President Now!” includes exclusive interviews with five pivotal figures from the movement, known as the Gallaudet four — Jerry Covell, Bridgetta Bourne-Firl, Tim Rarus, and Greg Hlibok — as well as Dr. I. King Jordan, along with historical footage and scripted narrative elements. Additionally, the film employs an innovative storytelling technique called Deaf Point of View, featuring evocative visual elements and intricate sound design to immerse the audience in the Deaf experience.
The production of the film was conducted with a commitment to accessibility and cultural sensitivity and communication considerations.
- Wayne Betts Jr., a producer from Deaf Lens, was brought on board during production to assist in developing the visual language that DiMarco refers to as “Visual Noise.”
- Betts collaborated closely with the directors to ensure authenticity in all aspects, including performances and camera movements, to align with the Deaf experience.
- DiMarco ensured that the representation and interpretation of American Sign Language (ASL) were handled meticulously in every scene.
- The production team enlisted consultants Jonaz McMillan and Lindsey Dryden from FWD-Doc to ensure accurate representation of the Deaf perspective, promote inclusive hiring practices, and implement resources for accessibility and communication needs.
- Over 40 Deaf or Hard of Hearing participants, including cast and crew, contributed to the film’s creation.
“Deaf President Now!” aligns with Apple’s commitment to inclusive and original storytelling. Two years prior, “CODA” featured a largely Deaf cast and won the Academy Award for Best Picture.
We will provide further updates as details about the film’s availability become available.
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