As a Deaf person, my problem with this film...

Is that deafness wasn't really emphasized in this movie. Or maybe it's just that my experience was drastically different, I don't know!

But I felt the difficulties and alienation of being deaf weren't accurately portrayed.

For someone who had lost his hearing in 'Nam, he was portrayed as being able to hear fairly well (in my opinion.) Well enough! Well enough to have successful relationships, friendships, and a professional career. I didn't feel this person's frustration and sense of loss at all!

I lost my hearing at age 14 as part of a cancer chemotherapy. I lost it literally overnight! Permanently, irreparably. (not to mention other related health issues.)

It has damaged my social life as well as my professional life. And yet, the gov refuses to acknowledge that I am "disabled" in any way. Yeah, and good luck trying to find work with people who don't have patience for a deaf person.

Reality is, most people won't waste 2 seconds on someone who is unable to hear properly; both in the social arena as well as the professional.

Otherwise, GREAT, and important film! It really struck a chord in this disabled person and gives me verve and hope for the future.



"I listened and I heard music in a word."--Pete Townshend