Sophia Michaels
Authentic Deaf representation in film is still an uphill battle, but there is something to celebrate this month: the highly-anticipated “Creed III,” directed by and starring Michael B. Jordan, has featured Deaf actress Mila Davis-Kent in the role of Amara Creed. This is a major step forward for Deaf representation in the “Rocky” franchise, and it is a testament to the importance of casting Deaf actors in Deaf roles.
I was excited to see the movie with my sibling, and as a Black, Deaf, LGBTQ writer, I was thrilled to see my own experiences reflected in the media. The movie hit all the right notes and did the work to bring accurate and positive representation of Deaf individuals to the entire “Rocky” franchise.
The Creed family’s mansion also has features that allow for better access and communication for the Deaf and HOH members of the family — including flashing lights for the doorbell and glass floors in certain parts of the house, which allow the family to communicate from separate floors. This type of architecture is known as DeafSpace, or the art of designing interiors and home spaces for deaf people.
The movie also highlights the importance of sign language as the primary mode of communication in Deaf spaces. Amara goes to a Deaf school, and after getting into a fight, her parents are called to the school. Donnie says something under his breath, and Bianca quickly nudges him and signs the word “sign.” This small but powerful moment shows just how deeply the filmmakers cared to learn about nuances within the community.
In addition, there is an interpreter at all the boxing matches in “Creed III,” which highlights the importance of access for Deaf and HOH individuals. This type of representation is becoming more common, as Justina Miles’s historic performance interpreting ASL for Sheryl Lee Ralph and Rihanna at this year’s Super Bowl shows.
The “Creed” series has allowed people who are HOH or deaf to see themselves reflected in film. With the positive reception of Amara’s character in “Creed III,” audiences are making it clear that they’re open to seeing more authentic representation of the Deaf community. It is crucial for the media to reflect the diversity within the Deaf and hard of hearing community, including different identities, experiences, and the use of various forms of communication.
From casting a Deaf actor in a Deaf role to showcasing ASL as a primary form of communication, this film is a good first step, but it’s still just a step. As we await the next film, we can only hope that we will see more of Amara and the Deaf community in the future. True representation can only be achieved when we are involved.
