5 Movies and series with deaf characters

5 Movies and TV Shows with Deaf Characters We've put together our own top picks of movies and TV shows with themes or characters that struggle with deafness. About 360 million people are hearing impaired in at least one ear, according to the study, so it's no surprise that Hollywood and hearing loss overlap.

5 PHOTOS

1. The Hammer.

Based on the life of deaf wrestler and UFC fighter Matt Hamill, The Hammer offers a maturing perspective on hearing loss combined with self-identity, determination, struggle, teamwork, triumph, and growth.

2. Deaf Jam.

This independent slam-poetry film follows a deaf teenager in Queens, New York who discovers a new level of self-expression through American Sign Language poetry.

3. Music inside.

In honor of one of the many heroes of the disability rights movement, Music Inside tells the story of talented public speaker Richard Pimentel, who returns home from the Vietnam War with hearing loss that leads to a new calling.

4. Children of a lesser god.

This 80s love story and the clash of ideologies over lip-reading and talking versus communicating through sign language featured deaf actress Marlee Matlin, who won an Academy Award for her lead role.

5. West wing.

This popular and critically acclaimed series provides a glimpse into the White House through the fictional Bartlet administration and also features deaf actress and Oscar winner Marley Matlin as Joey Lucasya.