A random collection of films authored by or about my transgender, intersex sisters, and gender-nonconforming persons all over the world. I watched some of them, and I was inspired by some of them. I met some of the authors and heroines, some of them are my best friends, and I had the pleasure and honor of interviewing some of them. If you know of any transgender documentary that I have not covered yet, please let me know.

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Becoming Us

Producer: Ryan Seacrest Productions
Release Year: 2015
Première: ABC Family

Synopsis:
"Becoming Us" is an unscripted drama that intricately weaves the story of Ben, a teenager navigating the complexities of adolescence while facing a profound family transition. The series chronicles the life of Ben and his family as they support each other through the journey of his father, Charlie, who transitions into Carly Lehwald. Set against the backdrop of the Midwestern United States, "Becoming Us" offers an intimate portrayal of love, acceptance, and the challenges of coming to terms with identity in a close-knit family.
 
At the center of "Becoming Us" is the evolving relationship between Ben and his parent, Carly. The series provides a candid look at the impact of Carly's transition on Ben, who finds himself grappling with a mix of emotions—confusion, embarrassment, and ultimately, a desire for understanding. This journey is not merely about Carly's transformation; it encapsulates the broader implications for the family unit as they navigate their new reality together. The narrative begins with the initial shock of Carly’s transition. Ben, like many teenagers, struggles to reconcile his feelings with the changes occurring in his life. As his father becomes a woman, he faces the challenge of adapting to this new family dynamic while simultaneously dealing with the pressures of school and friendships. The series expertly captures these feelings of turmoil and the complexity of adolescent identity during such transitions.
 
As the series unfolds, viewers witness Ben's struggles in school. The transition of his father into Carly becomes a source of tension for him, leading to social distancing and a decline in his self-esteem. Ben's experiences resonate with many teenagers who face similar struggles in understanding their identities and the dynamics of their family life. The portrayal of Ben's school life is particularly poignant. The challenges he faces—bullying, isolation, and the search for acceptance—reflect the harsh realities many LGBTQ+ youth encounter. These elements add depth to the narrative, providing a realistic representation of the internal conflicts teenagers face as they seek to fit in while supporting their families.
 
"Becoming Us" emphasizes the importance of a robust support system in navigating life’s transitions. Ben’s mother, Sutton, is a cornerstone of this system, providing emotional support to both Ben and Carly. Sutton's role is multifaceted; she strives to maintain balance within the family while also embracing the changes that come with Carly's transition. Her character exemplifies the love and resilience needed to support family members through challenging times. Throughout the series, viewers are introduced to Ben’s circle of friends, who react to Carly's transition in various ways. Some friends are supportive, while others struggle to understand the changes. This range of responses mirrors real-life scenarios where acceptance is not always immediate. The friendships portrayed in "Becoming Us" highlight the necessity of open communication and understanding, showcasing the pivotal role friends play in a teenager's life.
 
Several key moments in the series serve as turning points for Ben and his family, illustrating the power of honest conversations and shared experiences. One notable event is a technology-free camping trip that Ben and his family embark on. This trip fosters meaningful dialogue and allows them to express their feelings in a safe environment, showcasing the importance of connection in the face of change. During the trip, Ben's reluctance to open up gradually transforms into candid discussions about his feelings regarding Carly’s transition. This breakthrough moment symbolizes a crucial step towards healing and understanding, reinforcing the series' theme of familial support.
 
The show also delves into the evolving relationships between characters as they adapt to the changes within the family. Lathan, a friend of Ben’s, experiences excitement in his budding romance, contrasting Ben's own struggles. These parallel narratives highlight the universality of teenage experiences, showcasing how love and friendship can blossom even amidst personal upheaval. Carly’s interactions with Ben further demonstrate the shifting dynamics. She seeks to understand why he struggles in school, reflecting a mother’s instinct to support her child while navigating her own challenges. This exploration of their relationship serves to deepen the emotional resonance of the series, revealing the complexities of parental roles during times of transition.
 
As "Becoming Us" progresses, the family celebrates milestones, such as Sutton’s engagement party. Carly's introduction to Kevin's parents at the party underscores the challenges of acceptance that extend beyond the immediate family. These moments are crucial in illustrating how external relationships are affected by Carly’s transition, offering a realistic view of the social dynamics involved. The series also addresses the aftermath of a traumatic event, highlighting how the family copes with adversity. These scenes illustrate the emotional resilience required to navigate both the joys and challenges of life, emphasizing the importance of togetherness in overcoming hardships.
 
Throughout the series, Ben finds solace in his passion for photography, culminating in a gallery show that showcases his work. This event serves as a platform for self-expression, allowing Ben to invite his friends, including Danielle, to witness his journey. The gallery show symbolizes his growth and the ways in which he channels his experiences into art, reflecting a broader theme of resilience and personal discovery. Carly's potential absence from Sutton and Kevin's wedding due to her own struggles adds another layer of complexity. This tension highlights the ongoing challenges that come with transition, even amidst celebrations. The characters’ ability to navigate these challenges together reinforces the series' message about the importance of family and community support.
 
"Becoming Us" is more than just a narrative about a family navigating a transition; it is a profound exploration of love, identity, and the resilience of the human spirit. Through the lens of Ben and Carly's journey, the series paints a nuanced portrait of what it means to support one another in the face of change. As the characters grapple with their individual challenges and growth, "Becoming Us" invites viewers to reflect on their own relationships and the importance of acceptance. The series stands as a testament to the power of family, friendship, and community in fostering understanding and love, reminding us that even in the most challenging circumstances, there is room for growth, connection, and hope. In a world where conversations about gender identity and acceptance are increasingly important, "Becoming Us" offers a heartfelt narrative that resonates with viewers, encouraging empathy and understanding as we navigate our own journeys of identity and love.
Image credits: YouTube
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