An in-depth look at Hollywood’s depiction of transgender people and the impact of those stories on transgender lives and American culture.
Only recently has the world openly recognized transgender people on the big screen even though they have been visible in movies for decades. Famous trans people who are continuing to make their mark in film and television recount their past struggles in finding themselves through characters in the movies. While openly cross-dressing and public display of same-sex affection was illegal at one time, many films included homosexual and transgender characters through comedy and thrillers where men dressed in women’s clothing were depicted as buffoons and trans women always played prostitutes or psychopath killers. Their image in society has never been positive and as a result, has struck fear and confusion in others.
Within the past few years, those identifying as transgender have been more vocal than ever, writing their own scripts, telling their own stories, and gaining control over their own narrative. This documentary features amazing commentary from Laverne Cox, Chaz Bono, Lilly Wachowski, Yance Ford, Mj Rodriguez, Jamie Clayton, and more who describe the effects many films had on them internally because of their depiction of transgender characters. I loved this documentary and think it is a great celebration of how far we’ve come in understanding and appreciating differences. It also makes you realize much more work still needs to be done when it comes to education, acceptance, and inclusion of the LGBTQ community on and off-screen.
Premieres globally on Netflix Friday, June 19th
