Daruma Isn’t Your Typical Disability Film

A new film executive-produced by Oscar-winner Peter Farrelly bills itself as “the first film in U.S. cinematic history to star two authentically cast disabled leads in a narrative not about overcoming disability.” Starring Tobias Forrest, a quad, and John W. Lawson, a double hand amputee, Daruma is an indie film that tells a story everyone can relate to, one about friendship, fatherhood and found family. 

The film has been in the works for a long time because producers were adamant about authentic casting, but Forrest says the delay paid off. “Although I’ve worked with other performers with disabilities, it has never been in starring roles with multiple scenes and dialogue that wasn’t disability-driven,” 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 create trust and communication during our scenes, but John took care of me like family on screen and on set as well.” 

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

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

Daruma is playing in theaters in seven cities Nov. 15 – 21, and is available to rent for $5.99 or purchase for $12.99 on Apple TV, Prime and other streaming platforms.