User reviews

Don't miss this authentic movie. It's a refreshing change from others in the same genre - the cast is real, the story is touching, and the ending worked for me! It's nice to watch something so well made and that doesn't leave you wishing you had rented or bought something else instead. It's long enough to be an evening, but not overly so, and the scenery is great. I especially liked the scenes with the (very) young child, being a sentimental person myself. Touching but not cloying. I found myself alternating between disliking the main characters and really liking them alot! A milestone, breaking the stereotypes movie!

All in all this was a really solid indie drama that had some really unexpected comedic beats as well. The story really took me on a ride - it's hard to have an "unlikeable" protagonist but the more the story unfolded the more the film started to chip away at all of the layers that the main character Patrick (played by a phenomenal Tobias Forrest), you started to get really invested in him and his journey. And then when the road trip element starts with his neighbor (played by John W. Lawson who gave a really stellar performance!) you are fully onboard and feel like you're going on this journey with them, both physically across the country and metaphorically through their pasts to fix what is broken inside of them and make amends. The Daruma doll symbology was a really neat and elegant way to tie all of the character struggles together as well. All in all 10/10 don't sleep on this one!

Fellow filmmaker here: I've been to a LOT of my friends' screenings over the years and seen a LOT of movies that felt like they just missed the mark. This is NOT one of those movies. The filmmakers did such an incredible job of not only storytelling but casting the film authentically and they did it in way that by the end of the movie you didn't even realize you were looking at disability on the screen. Like... what a hat trick! Not only were the performances fantastic by the two lead and the supporting cast (Barry Bostwick is all I have to say about that!) but the production quality was astounding. The camera work, the sound, the sets, the wardrobe, the continuity. It was all there. This is a real, studio level film but these filmmakers did something studios do not do: they make an authentically cast film and didn't center the disability and took a risk. And it paid off. In spades. And as a fellow filmmaker I have chime in that these kinds of films don't come around often. So if you want to see more representation on screen and want to see more diverse stories, then please RENT or BUY this film. Indie film is in such a hard spot right now and these filmmakers deserve every single dollar that they will earn back from the exhibition of this film. Don't miss it and please don't sleep on it. You won't regret it.

Any girl dad will love this film. The little actress who played Camilla is fantastic and will get you in the feels. The story revolves around a man with PTSD in a self-destructive spiral trying to figure out how to parent a young daughter who unexpectedly comes into her life. He realizes he's a lousy dad and bribes his next door neighbor, who also has a broken relationship with his own daughter, to drive him across the country so Camilla can live with her grandparents. While we see the father-daughter relationship, this is a film about men holding each other accountable as fathers and doing right by their kids. The two leads have disabilities, which is a nice change of perspective, but the movie isn't about their disabilities so I stopped paying attention to them after a while. There's some definite humor, some of it dark, and while the movie is far from sappy, it's very touching. Best line from the grandfather: "Fathers and daughters, there's nothing like it in the world."

I don't want to post any spoilers but if you've got kids (especially daughters) keep a box of tissues handy when you watch this movie because you will need them. I have a young daughter and watching Patrick go through the steps he needed to go through in order to become not only a better man but the man and the DAD that Camilla needed was cathartic and painful at the same time. I was watching him and watching his struggles (the actor who played him was very good too) and then watching his neighbor own up to his own mistakes with HIS own family... wow. I did not expect such depth and nuance from an indie film like this. It was really well done and I will be thinking about it for days to come.

DARUMA is a ground-breaking film in disability storytelling, representation and authentic casting. Indie film that will be worth your time to see in theater or via streaming on Apple TV (US and Canada) and Amazon (US).

As the first film in US cinematic history to star two authentically cast disabled leads in a narrative not about overcoming disability, I loved DARUMA's story featuring bitter wheelchair user PATRICK (played by actor Tobias Forrest, a C-level quadraplegic) who enlists the help of his cantankerous neighbor ROBERT (portrayed by actor John W. Larson with double amputation) to transport the four-year-old daughter he never knew he had to live with her maternal grandparents on the other side of the country. I laughed. I cried. I was in awe, especially of the amazing cinematography.

BRAVO to the talented cast -- Tobias Forrest; John W. Lawson; Abigail Hawk (of CBS Blue Bloods TV show); Barry Bostwick, and introducing Victoria Scott as Patrick's daughter.

As a late-deafened board director and human being, it is honestly refreshing to see DARUMA that captures disability as part of the lead characters' lived human experience and not the center of the story where disability need to be overcome or pitied. Tired of the disability tropes and "inspiration porn" where disabled people are the object of inspiration.

Blessed to have attended the Midwest Movie Premiere on November 15 on the Chicago North Shore where Hollywood came to Highland Park, IL at Wayfarer Theaters. It was most insightful to hear Director & Cinematographer ALEXANDER YELLEN, Writer-Producer Kelli McNeil-Yellen, and Actors Tobias Forrest, John Lawson and Abigail Hawk share their passion about this amazing film.

For those moviegoers who want to see more disability films with authentic casting of disabled actors, please come see and buy-rent DARUMA. I encourage you to support this film. Metrics matter (tickets sold; downloads; positive reviews + press) for indie films like DARUMA to make it to more screens and audiences. Please support DARUMA.

Highly recommend!

This is a deeply moving film that struck a personal chord with me as the son of a disabled veteran (the lead characters are also disabled veterans). The performances, especially from the hero Patrick, who's in a wheel chair, and his neighbor Robert, with hooks instead of hands, felt raw and genuine. Patrick starts off as a total jerk but still becomes endearing as the plot moves along. The little girl was also surprisingly good and the road trip scenes were beautifully shot. While the film isn't perfect, it's a beautiful story that made me laugh and got me choked up a couple of times so I can easily forgive the flaws.

Daruma starring Tobias Forrest as Patrick and John Lawaon as Robert is a must see. I loved how they showed disability representation and educated the audience. Thankfully they didn't over do it by shoving a message down our throats. Tobias Forrest plays a cantankerous man with a bad attitude who happens to be a quadriplegic. Tobias plays the character well. I hated the character not his performance. I liked how his character changed personally over the course of the movie. I really enjoyed the chemistry between Tobias and Abigail Hawk. I also enjoyed the relationship between Patrick and his daughter. John W. Lawson plays Robert. His acting and the personality he gave to the character was the standout for me. I believe at the very least he should be nominated for an Oscar. I wanted Abigail Hawk to be in the movie longer because of the chemistry between Tobias and Abigail. I'm definitely going to be watching it again.

I've seen this film twice now (once on the festival circuit and then in person in LA at a screening) and I loved it even more the second time I saw it (if that's even possible). Everything about this film: from the acting, to the writing, to the cinematography, to the determination of the filmmakers to get it made and out into the world is a triumph of independent filmmaking. It's so hard to make a movie and even more so to make one that stars authentically cast actors but this film does it and does it exceptionally well. If you want to support authentic storytelling and indie filmmaking, please check out this film. Everything in Hollywood is based on sequels and big set pieces but this movie is like a throwback to that wonderful time in the late 1990s and early 2000s where films were centered on characters and their stories. It's like the film's tagline: fall down seven times, get up eight. Maybe the success of this film can help encourage others to make films like this and demonstrate an audience for this kind of storytelling. Well done to everyone involved.

Daruma is a triumph of authentic storytelling. As a disabled woman, it's rare to see characters who reflect not just my experiences but my complexities, dreams, and flaws (and desires!!!!). This isn't a story about disability-it's a story about friendship, resilience, and confronting life's messy moments. The bond between Patrick and Robert is deeply human and emotionally raw, capturing the frustrations, humor, and beauty of their journey. Watching this film felt like being truly seen, not for my disability, but for the person I am beyond it. The performances are nuanced and magnetic, drawing you into a narrative that's as relatable as it is moving. Daruma doesn't preach; it connects. It's a film I'll carry with me, grateful for the way it made me laugh, cry, and, most importantly, feel seen.

If you're looking for a movie about family, fatherhood and FORGIVENESS ahead of the holiday season this is the movie for you. I cannot believe that this gem of a movie has flown under the radar for as long as it has but I heard about it through word of mouth (like most indie films!) and I am so glad I rented it. It's been recommended to me by a few people now and I don't usually post reviews but this is a really special film and it deserves to be seen by as many people as possible. It reminded me a lot of the early 2000s indie films like Little Miss Sunshine and captured that vibe of poignancy and optimism and maybe that is something we all need right now. The central theme of the movie is kindness - to be kind to yourself and to others. In addition to weaving really complex story lines, there is a gentleness to this film. It's like a warm hug and it will stay with you for days afterward as you think about all the little details and character quirks. Fantastic acting, amazing writing and directed incredibly well. This is the feel good film of the year. Do not miss it.

Okay, I was not sure what to expect when I heard about DARUMA through an organization I know in Cincinnati that advocates for disability representation, however, after seeing the movie last night at the Esquire and attending the Q&A with lead actor John W. Lawson, I was totally taken in. It's not often you see a movie that's both entertaining and pushes boundaries like this. DARUMA doesn't just put disabled characters front and center-it lets them own their stories in a way that feels real and unapologetic. Hearing Lawson talk about the process of making the film made it clear how much thought and care went into the whole production. I'm glad I went to this screening and I would recommend the movie to others.

I saw this at The Miracle Theater in DC and I LOVED it! It's a quiet movie about a man trying to let go of the past and become the person he was meant to be. I loved the symbolism of the Daruma doll in the movie - it was very subtle and the move I think about the movie, the more layers and nuances I begin to uncover. There's a lot of layers to unpack in the film and it was really surprising how by the end of the movie, you completely forget about the disability at all. You're just looking at two normal people who are going through the human experience and trying and learning and picking themselves back up again! Very good and highly recommend!

I had the privilege of seeing DARUMA at a screening in Highland Park, IL, followed by an engaging Q&A with the cast and filmmakers and the owner of the theater (Wayfarer). It was so incredible to hear them all talk about making the film and just how much they had to go through to get their vision to the screen. Truly impressed. The film itself is groundbreaking, showcasing two disabled leads with authenticity and heart. It was clear from their stories at the talkback led by Steve just how much care and effort went into bringing this project to life. The filmmakers faced incredible challenges but created something both deeply personal and universally resonant. The cast's performances were nuanced and moving, and their insights during the Q&A added even more depth to the experience. It's rare to see such a combination of dedication and representation but this is why independent cinema is so important. DARUMA is a testament to the power of storytelling done right. Please watch this movie!

The whole cast was awesome but that little girl was next level. Whoa. She reminded me of the little girl in The Florida Project. I heard on an interview or a talk back with the filmmakers that she had just turned five or six when she played the role and I straight up did a double take. For real??? I don't know how a kid that young can understand such emotionally complex issues like that with such depth but she did and the director must have worked some kind of magic to pull that off because it was awesome. Seamless. And I won't lie, I watched the movie with three grown men (my brothers and my dad) and they were ALL bawling their eyes out by the end. TLDR: Rent this movie. It's refreshing, it's honest, it's funny, it's touching and it's a da%m good movie. You will not regret it.

Daruma is a heartfelt and impactful film that highlights the importance of supporting families, especially those facing extraordinary challenges. I saw this film at The Tank in NYC during its theatrical run. While not a traditional film venue, seeing it in a theater with other folks always makes a difference. As an advocate in child social welfare, I appreciate how the film approaches the difficult choices around placing a child while hoping for the best possible outcome and the influential bond between the lead character-a disabled veteran-and the young girl, Camilla. She gives a stunning, natural performance that radiates warmth and resilience. The film also thoughtfully addresses the theme of accountability, particularly among men, and how vital it is for them to challenge and support each other in fostering healthy relationships and accepting responsibility for their faults. While not flawless, Daruma offers a rich and nuanced narrative that reminds us of the strength in community, the power of empathy, and the need for unwavering support within families. It's a story that will resonate with all.

I loved this film. It is filled with heart and humor. The characters are grounded in reality and flawed - like all of us.

The story is raw and honest. We've all been through the dark night of the soul- and director Alexander Yellen captures lead character Patrick's (played beautifully by Tobias Forrest)deep existential crisis.

Kelli McNeil's writing is strong and funny, and the pace keeps the audience engaged.

One of my favorite parts of the film is how beautifully it is shot. The soundtrack is surprisingly vibrant and upbeat.

Finally, it is a film that addresses the complexities of family and life ALONG with inclusive messaging. People have disabilities. Some are invisible, and some are visible. I am not in a wheelchair. One of my dearest friends is in a wheelchair, and guess what-his life is as real, important, valid, passionate, and complex as mine.

Support independent art and see this beautifully shot and told story!

It shows regular people dealing with human problems that we all can relate to. The fact that the main protagonists are impaired--one in a wheelchair and the other with no hands--is treated as a feature of their lives but not as the dominating force in their lives. I would guess that the disabled community would really appreciate this aspect of the film.

Since Yellen is a cinematographer I watched this aspect of the film closely. All of the shots--the close-ups as well as the aerial shots--are very professional and right. If anything the aerial views of the car driving in the landscape are beautiful and too much like an advertisement.

I thoroughly enjoyed this heart-warming film. The story was compelling and drew me in early as I found myself caring deeply about the characters, and felt as though I was a part of their journey. Daruma is a wonderful independent film. It has an authentic script, superb acting, a director who knows how to tell a story and is shot beautifully. The story is uplifting despite the tragic circumstances that bring Patrick and Camilla together. As the daughter of an amputee, it was refreshing to see Patrick and Robert played by people with a disability. Such authenticity, and I think the film demonstrated beautifully that a disability does not define the person.

Daruma (2023) is a heartwarming and deeply human road trip story that beautifully showcases the strength of unlikely friendships and the transformative power of compassion. Tobias Forrest and John W. Lawson deliver standout performances, bringing depth, humor, and vulnerability to their roles as two flawed but resilient individuals navigating life's challenges. Director Alexander Yellen crafts a poignant narrative filled with moments of raw emotion, laughter, and personal growth, while Kelli McNeil's thoughtful script ensures the story remains authentic and impactful. The journey is as much about healing and acceptance as it is about reaching a destination, making Daruma an inspiring and unforgettable film that celebrates the resilience of the human spirit.

Uniformly excellent performances as the charm of a young child helps an angry, disabled man find redemption. The story arc is rather predictable, though it is very well written. One problem (which would be insignificant for many viewers, but as a frequent cross-country traveler, kept interrupting my engagement with the film) is that the time-sensitive cross-country trip from Arizona/Southern California to Providence, RI is shown to progress primarily on "back roads" -- this approach versus taking interstate highways makes for some very beautiful scenic shots, but the unrealistic nature of this, as well as some seemingly inconsistent topographical continuity, kept throwing me out of the film's believability.

As a mom of a disabled child, Daruma left me in tears-tears of joy, validation, and hope. For the first time, my child and I saw authentic representation on screen: two disabled leads whose stories weren't about "overcoming" disability but about living fully and unapologetically. The film's honesty, humor, and heart reminded me of our own daily triumphs and challenges. It was empowering to see disability portrayed as normal and multidimensional, not something to pity or fix. The chemistry between the leads was magnetic, their journeys both relatable and inspiring. Daruma gave me hope for a future where my child can see themselves reflected in art and society. Thank you for showing that our stories matter. Representation like this changes lives and it is needed now more than ever.

The film is about two disabled men who are neighbors, but not friends (an understatement). One finds out he had a child, from a previous relationship now 4-years old. Child social services suggest he take on the girl as he is the only living relative except for the deceased mother's parents who live on the other side of the country. The child is played by an exceptional young actress. The story sees the child create a bridge of friendship between the two men, as she comes to love and value both of them, especially her daddy, despite their disabilities. The great photography comes in as the men drive the girl across the country to be taken in by her grandparents, a trip not only featuring beautiful landscapes, but also with many moments of humor, and not without some backsliding and conflicts. The two men are each played by an actor with major disabilities, in performances which have won awards at several festivals and considerable interest from the disability community which rarely sees authentic representation of disability onscreen.

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This movie was so affecting. It's not often that a movie will stay with me for days after watching but this one did. I kept finding more nuances about the movie including the subtle references to the hero's journey and the emotional arc that unfolded for Patrick. Even going back and seeing the little Easter eggs in the production was incredible (the knight's journey to Camelot, the bedtime story) and the symbolism of the Daruma doll. Wow. Just wow. What a genuinely wonderful film to discover. Also the cinematography was STUNNING to say the least. The filmmakers pulled off a hat trick here with this film and my hat is off to them.

DARUMA's premise is that you have two disabled guys taking a road trip, and in that trip you learn about the men themselves, their lives, their failed and budding relationships. What is unique is that their disabilities become immaterial to the story line, really: it's not about them overcoming disability issues, but simply living their lives. Two guys and a girl traveling cross country and their adventures together. Dramatic, funny, insightful -- this is exactly what independent films should be, HUMAN. The three lead actors (Tobias Forrest, John W. Lawson, and Victoria Scott) all shine; the supporting cast includes a deft, touching performance by Abigail Hawk and a stunning cameo by Barry Bostwick.

Treat yourself to an excellent indie feature.