Deaf President Now! is a powerful feature-length documentary debuting on Apple TV+ on May 16, 2025. Co-directed by Deaf activist and Gallaudet University alumnus Nyle DiMarco and Academy Award-winning filmmaker Davis Guggenheim, the film revisits a groundbreaking moment in Deaf civil rights history—the eight-day student-led protest at Gallaudet University in 1988 that changed the trajectory of Deaf leadership in America.
The documentary features firsthand accounts from the four student leaders known as the “Gallaudet Four”—Jerry Covell, Bridgetta Bourne-Firl, Tim Rarus, and Greg Hlibok—as well as Dr. I. King Jordan, who became the first Deaf president of the university.
Using innovative filmmaking techniques like the “Deaf Point of View” and immersive sound design, the film brings viewers inside the lived experience of Deaf protestors and emphasizes themes of identity, justice, and representation.
Deaf President Now Age Rating
Deaf President Now is rated TV-MA for mature thematic content, emotional intensity, and historical footage that may include strong language or depictions of protest conflict. Here’s a full breakdown for parents:
Violence & Peril
While there is no physical violence, the documentary includes emotionally charged protest footage, confrontations with authority figures, and scenes of intense crowd mobilization. Some archival segments may show moments of unrest or tension, though the focus is on peaceful demonstration.
Language
There may be occasional use of strong language in interviews or protest footage reflecting the emotional urgency of the moment. Voice actors providing accessibility narration may vocalize this content.
Sexual Content
There is no sexual content, nudity, or romantic material present in the film.
Mature Themes
The documentary explores complex civil rights issues, identity politics, systemic ableism, and the struggle for representation. It deals with the emotional toll of marginalization, historical injustice, and societal resistance to Deaf leadership. While deeply educational, the subject matter may require context for younger viewers.
Is Deaf President Now! Suitable for Teens?
Ages 10–12: Not recommended. The film’s mature themes, emotional tension, and historical context may be difficult for younger pre-teens to fully comprehend without adult guidance. The TV-MA rating and focus on civil rights activism place it outside typical content for this age group.
Ages 13–17: Recommended with guidance. Mature teens—especially those interested in social justice, history, or disability rights—may find this documentary enlightening and powerful. While the emotional content is intense, it is presented respectfully and offers a valuable learning opportunity. Parental guidance is advised to help younger teens understand the historical context and emotional weight of the movement.
Deaf President Now! is a meaningful and impactful film best suited for older teens and adults who can engage with its themes thoughtfully. It is ideal for classroom settings or family viewing with discussion.
What Parents Can Do
Preview the Film: Consider watching the film ahead of time to determine if your teen is emotionally ready for the content.
Encourage Discussion: Use the film as a launching point for conversations about civil rights, disability advocacy, and the importance of representation.
Provide Context: Help teens understand the historical and cultural significance of the Deaf President Now movement and how it resonates today.
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for Deaf President Now!?
A: The documentary is rated TV-MA for mature themes and emotional content.
Q: Is Deaf President Now! appropriate for kids or teens?
A: It is best suited for older teens and adults. Younger viewers may struggle with the emotional and thematic depth.
Q: Does the film contain violence or graphic images?
A: No physical violence is shown, but protest footage includes intense emotional scenes and civil unrest.
Q: Is there any sexual content in the documentary?
A: No. The film contains no sexual content or nudity.
Q: Where can I watch Deaf President Now!?
A: The film will premiere exclusively on Apple TV+ on May 16, 2025.