The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) will open its 51st edition with “Being Heumann,” a disability rights drama directed by Siân Heder. Organizers announce the film as the festival’s opening title, describing it as centered on U.S. disability rights activist Judy Heumann, whose advocacy contributed to major changes in accessibility laws. Sources report that the film is an Apple Original project from Heder, who previously directed “CODA,” which won an Academy Award. The movie is shot in Toronto, according to the information provided. Cast details mentioned in one report include Ruth Negga in a leading role, though the full ensemble is not detailed in the excerpts. The announcements are presented as part of TIFF’s official programming disclosure for the 2026 festival, which organizers say will begin with the Heumann-focused drama.