aixcentric

CODA was a popular choice for Best Picture at the recent Oscars ceremony: it’s a story about Ruby, 17, the only hearing member of a deaf family who runs a fishing business in Massachusetts.  Before school each day, she has to help her parents and brother with the business.  But she joins the school choir and new vistas open up for her…

Hang on I thought, I’ve seen a French film with this plot.

A quick rummage through the DVD heap revealed ‘La Famille Belier’ which was a big hit in France in 2014.  It’s the absorbing story of Paula, who helps her deaf parents and brother on their farm before school, where she joins the choir…

Was there a connection?

And the answer is yes, the French film was indeed the inspiration for CODA, which stands for Children Of Deaf Adults.  One of the original film’s French producers had the rights to do a remake and an international co-operation ensued.  It was premiered at the Sundance Film Festival where Apple paid $25m for distribution rights.

Deaf actors were cast in both productions; but it was an interesting challenge for the young lead actresses, both hearing, who learned to sign.  It proved to be a spring-board for French actress Louane who had been talent-spotted on The Voice and has gone on to movie-stardom.  Emilia Jones had to learn to sign, sing and master an American accent – she’s a Brit, daughter of Aled Jones.

I look forward to seeing CODA this weekend to enjoy the new interpretation.  It’s available on Apple TV.  La Famille Belier can be watched via Google Play for a small fee, but I don’t believe this version has English subtitles. Also on Apple TV where it does have subtitles.