CODA II: The Next Verse (2026) promises to be a deeply emotional and resonant continuation of the beloved CODA story. Picking up four years after Ruby Rossi (Emilia Jones) left for Berklee, this sequel explores the struggles of a young woman caught between her ambitions and her family, as she navigates the complexities of both the music industry and her evolving role within her Deaf family.
The film opens with Ruby in New York, now a graduate, striving to carve out a space for herself in the competitive and often overwhelming music industry. But despite her success in getting into Berklee, Ruby finds herself battling a creative block, lost in the noise of the city. The bustling world of New York contrasts sharply with the quiet, grounded life she had left behind in Gloucester. The struggle to reconcile her dreams with the expectations placed upon her adds an emotional weight to the narrative, highlighting Ruby’s internal conflict as she tries to find her true voice—both literally and figuratively.
Ruby’s journey takes a pivotal turn when a family emergency pulls her back to Gloucester, where she expects to pick up where she left off. But when she arrives, Ruby is faced with a shocking reality: her family no longer needs her. Her parents, Frank (Troy Kotsur) and Jackie (Marlee Matlin), have expanded their fishing business and adopted new technology to assist their operations, eliminating the need for Ruby as their interpreter. Meanwhile, her brother Leo (Daniel Durant), now a father, has stepped into a leadership role at the local co-op, showing a newfound independence that Ruby never anticipated.
This shift in dynamics leaves Ruby feeling like an outsider in her own family. No longer the bridge between the hearing and Deaf worlds, Ruby must confront her own feelings of displacement. This is where the emotional heart of CODA II truly shines—Ruby’s journey is no longer about leaving her family to pursue her dreams; instead, it’s about learning to return home, not as a savior, but as a daughter trying to find her place in a family that has grown without her.
The film beautifully explores themes of growth, identity, and the challenges of returning to one’s roots after a period of transformation. Ruby’s struggle is palpable, as she grapples with the feeling of being both part of her family and yet separated from it. Her evolution from the central, indispensable figure in the family’s communication to an outsider highlights the complexity of familial bonds and the tension between independence and connection.
One of the standout elements of CODA II is the continued presence of Eugenio Derbez as Ruby’s mentor, who pushes her to rediscover her sound. His character offers a contrasting perspective to Ruby’s family, reminding her that her voice is not just for others, but for herself. This dynamic adds an extra layer of depth to Ruby’s journey as she learns to redefine who she is as an artist and as a person.
The performances in CODA II are as powerful and moving as the original. Emilia Jones brings a raw, vulnerable energy to Ruby’s character, capturing the emotional depth of her internal conflict. Troy Kotsur and Marlee Matlin continue to shine as Ruby’s parents, offering nuanced portrayals of a couple who have evolved and are now learning to navigate a world without Ruby’s central role. Daniel Durant’s portrayal of Leo, now a father and leader, adds a layer of growth and maturity, showing that the family’s transformation extends beyond Ruby.
The film’s beautiful cinematography captures the contrast between the noisy, fast-paced world of New York and the serene, quiet life of Gloucester, emphasizing Ruby’s inner turmoil. The soundtrack, just like in the first film, will no doubt be a major emotional driver, with music serving as both a metaphor for Ruby’s personal growth and a vehicle for her self-expression.
CODA II: The Next Verse is more than just a sequel; it’s a poignant exploration of identity, family, and the ongoing journey of self-discovery. Ruby’s story is one of growth and acceptance, as she learns that sometimes, coming home isn’t about finding the same role but embracing the new person you’ve become.
In conclusion, CODA II delivers a heartfelt and deeply emotional continuation of Ruby’s journey. With stellar performances, a compelling story, and a powerful message about finding one’s place in the world, this sequel is sure to resonate with audiences who fell in love with Ruby’s story in the first film.
⭐ Rating: 4.8/5 – A touching, beautifully crafted sequel that explores growth, identity, and family with heart and depth.
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