AUSTIN, Texas — Just days after "CODA" became the first film with a predominantly deaf cast to win the Oscar for Best Picture, those most deeply connected are still reveling in the long-awaited recognition.
"Oscars are so well known, but now having deaf people in it and winning the award is just amazing,” student Max Harris said. "Me, as a deaf person, I feel really inspired by that."
For members of the film media and graphics classes at the Texas School for the Deaf in Austin, it’s refreshing to have a stage to share their triumphs as well as the daily struggles of living in a world without sound.
"I wouldn't say the word is honored, but kind of,” student Max Ramirez said. "I think it's more like, yeah, I can see myself on television. I can see my brother, who’s a CODA. We're not the only ones having that experience.”
Fellow student and actress Kaylee Hottle knows the industry well, with roles in movies such as "Godzilla vs. Kong." She says seeing "CODA’s" Troy Kotsur win the Best Supporting Male Actor proves there’s plenty of untapped talent deserving of equal opportunities in show business.
“I feel like finally,” Hottle said. “There have been films with other deaf actors but we want to be on the big screen and want to jump into a higher level of film and notoriety."
Along with Best Adapted Screenplay, the buzz of three Academy Awards would appear to be a huge step in the right direction and hopefully a sign of what’s to come.
"Deaf people can act. You don't need to pick someone who can hear and also sign. Pick a deaf person. Let them use their own language,” Hottle said.