The song choice reflects Ruby’s life between the hearing and Deaf worlds. By signing while singing, she finally bridges these two disparate parts of her identity.

In the movie, the audition is high-stakes and intimidating, causing Ruby to nearly break down.

While emotionally resonant, the scene takes significant artistic liberties compared to a real Berklee College of Music audition.

Personal experiences shared by viewers highlight the scene's resonance:

Critics appreciate the presence of Deaf actors like Marlee Matlin and Troy Kotsur , which adds a layer of honesty often missing from similar "Hollywood" dramas. Realistic vs. Cinematic Portrayal

The scene in the 2021 film CODA is widely regarded by critics and audiences as the movie's emotional and narrative climax . While based on a formulaic "coming-of-age" structure, the scene is praised for its unique execution, particularly Ruby’s decision to sign while she sings. Key Review Highlights