Apple Original Films has announced the groundbreaking documentary Deaf President Now!, chronicling the historic Gallaudet University protests that became a pivotal moment in civil rights history. The film is co-directed and produced by Academy Award-winning filmmaker Davis Guggenheim (An Inconvenient Truth, Still: A Michael J. Fox Movie) and Academy Award-nominated producer and fourth-generation Deaf advocate Nyle DiMarco (Deaf U, Audible).
“For too long, stories about disabilities shaping U.S. history have been overlooked,” said DiMarco. “This film not only preserves a landmark moment in civil rights history but also celebrates the resilience of the Deaf community, whose triumphs deserve widespread recognition.”
Guggenheim added, “It was shocking to realize how many, including myself, were unaware of this moment in Deaf history. Nyle and I worked with Deaf and hearing collaborators to honor this important story properly.”
Deaf President Now! revisits the historic eight-day protest at Gallaudet University in 1988, where students fought back after the board of trustees selected a hearing president over highly qualified Deaf candidates. Through rallies, boycotts, and protests, the students prevailed, leading to the resignation of the hearing president and the appointment of Dr. I. King Jordan as the university’s first Deaf president. This victory became a landmark event, influencing the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
The documentary features exclusive interviews with five key figures from the movement, including “The Gallaudet Four” — Jerry Covell, Bridgetta Bourne-Firl, Tim Rarus, and Greg Hlibok — along with Dr. I. King Jordan. Archival footage and scripted elements enhance the storytelling, while a unique cinematic technique called Deaf Point of View uses impressionistic visuals and intricate sound design to immerse viewers in the Deaf experience.
Accessibility and cultural accuracy were integral throughout production. DiMarco worked closely with Deaf Lens producer Wayne Betts Jr. to develop “Visual Noise,” a visual language reflecting the Deaf experience, ensuring authenticity in every aspect of the film, from camera movement to American Sign Language (ASL) portrayal.
Consultants Jonaz McMillan and FWD-Doc’s Lindsey Dryden guided the team to maintain an accurate Deaf lens, foster inclusive hiring practices, and meet accessibility and communication needs. Over 40 Deaf or Hard of Hearing individuals contributed to the project, making Deaf President Now! a testament to empowering Deaf creatives in an industry that often marginalizes them.
Produced by Concordia Studio, the film’s production team includes Guggenheim, DiMarco, Michael Harte (Beckham, Three Identical Strangers), Jonathan King (Spotlight, Roma), and Amanda Rohlke (Stormy, Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones).
Deaf President Now! is more than a documentary — it’s a celebration of a movement that continues to inspire change and champion the Deaf community.
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