Daruma Isn’t Your Typical Disability Film

A new film produced by Oscar winner Peter Farrelly bills itself as “the first film in the history of American cinema to star two authentically cast disabled leads in a narrative that is not about overcoming disability.” Starring Tobias Forrest, a quad, and John W. Lawson, a two-handed amputee, Daruma is an independent film that tells a story that everyone can identify with, about friendship, fatherhood and the founding of a family.

The film has been in the works for a long time because producers were adamant about authentic casting, but Forrest says the delay was worth it. “Although I have worked with other artists with disabilities, it has never been in leading roles with multiple scenes and dialogue that were not driven by the disability,” he says. “It was an incredible experience working alongside a great friend and talented actor like John Lawson. Not only did our real-life bond build trust and communication during our scenes, but John cared for me like family on screen and on set as well.”

The film tells the story of Patrick, a wheelchair user who enlists the help of his cantankerous neighbor Robert, a double amputee, to transport the 4-year-old daughter he never knew he had, to live with her maternal grandparents in the other. side of the country.

Forrest, a member of United Spinal, hopes the film’s impact goes beyond the viewing experience. “With a little luck, Daruma “It will inspire conversations about fatherhood and friendship, as well as highlight the importance of authentic casting and inclusive storytelling,” he says. “All entertainment companies would instantly benefit from an increase in the employment of people with disabilities at all levels of production.”

Daruma will play in theaters in seven cities from November 15 to 21 and is available to rent for $5.99 or purchase for $12.99 at AppleTV, Major and other streaming platforms.