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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I am Anastasia

Director: Thomas Ladenburger
Release Year: 2019
Original title: Ich bin Anastasia

Synopsis:
In the landscape of global military institutions, the stories of transgender individuals in positions of power are rare and often overlooked. However, the 2019 documentary "I Am Anastasia", directed by Thomas Ladenburger, offers a powerful and intimate portrayal of one such individual: Lieutenant Colonel Anastasia Biefang. Born Marc Biefang, she is a trailblazer in the German military and the first openly transgender person to command a battalion in the Bundeswehr (German Armed Forces). The documentary chronicles her life and career, focusing on her remarkable transition from male to female and her leadership in a traditionally male-dominated institution. Through her story, "I Am Anastasia" sheds light on issues of gender identity, societal change, and the intersection of personal and professional life in the military.
 
Anastasia Biefang was born on June 13, 1974, in Krefeld, Germany, and raised in a military family. Her father was an officer in the Luftwaffe (the German Air Force), and the family relocated to the United States for several years during her youth. Biefang describes herself as "introverted" during her childhood, often finding solace in solitary activities. Yet, beneath this introversion was an intense internal struggle with her gender identity, something she would not fully confront until much later in life. Her journey in the military began when she was drafted for compulsory service under Germany's military conscription laws for men in 1994. Initially assigned male at birth, she entered basic training in the German Air Force and would go on to complete officer training. Over the years, Biefang’s career flourished, and she held a variety of positions, including IT officer, battalion commander, and military strategist. Her work included assignments in various global hotspots, including Afghanistan, where she served as a staff officer in operations and logistics. As she advanced through the ranks, Biefang's dedication to her work and her intellect earned her the respect of her peers and superiors. Despite her professional success, Biefang faced an unspoken internal conflict regarding her gender identity, something that remained suppressed for much of her career. Her decision to transition was not one she made lightly; it was a culmination of years of personal reflection, emotional turmoil, and a desire to live authentically. 
 
In early 2015, at the peak of her military career, Biefang made the decision to come out as transgender. Her story as a high-ranking officer in the German military who transitioned while in service is rare, and her journey provides valuable insight into the challenges and triumphs that accompany such a transformation. To her surprise, Biefang did not face the kind of backlash one might expect in such a traditionally conservative institution. The military, and particularly her superiors, were supportive, and she did not experience any direct professional repercussions from her decision to transition. This was a watershed moment for both Biefang and the German military, as it reflected an increasing openness toward diversity and inclusion within the Bundeswehr. The military’s response to her transition marks a significant departure from the stigmas and barriers that transgender service members often face in other armed forces around the world. In 2017, just two years after coming out, Biefang was appointed as the first openly transgender battalion commander in the German Armed Forces. She took command of the Information Technology Battalion 381, a key unit responsible for cyber and information warfare. This was not just a personal milestone for Biefang but also a historical moment for the Bundeswehr, symbolizing the breaking down of barriers for LGBTQ+ individuals in the military.
 
Ladenburger’s documentary follows Biefang during this crucial period in her life. "I Am Anastasia" does not just tell the story of Biefang's personal transition but also explores the ways in which her battalion adjusted to the changes in leadership and mentality. Her transition is framed not as a personal battle but as a collective challenge for her subordinates, who must confront their own perceptions of gender and authority. The documentary’s strength lies in its ability to capture this dual process: Biefang’s personal transformation alongside the transformation of the people around her. The film’s narrative is deeply human, focusing on Biefang’s inner journey, the support she receives from her colleagues, and the impact of her leadership on the wider military culture. The documentary shows the nuances of military life, the bond of camaraderie between soldiers, and the professional and personal challenges that come with leading a diverse group of individuals. As Biefang assumes command of her battalion, the documentary highlights her leadership style, which is grounded in empathy, transparency, and the ability to adapt to the needs of her troops. It is clear that her identity as a transgender woman does not define her leadership; rather, it complements her approach, enabling her to forge a unique connection with those she leads. The film also delves into the broader societal context in which Biefang’s story takes place. The military, often seen as a bastion of conservatism, is gradually being forced to confront issues of gender identity, equality, and diversity. Biefang’s story serves as a powerful symbol of change within the institution, and "I Am Anastasia" captures the tension and optimism that arises from such profound shifts.
 
As Biefang navigates her new role as commander, her battalion must also come to terms with the changes in leadership. The film captures moments of uncertainty and awkwardness, as well as the gradual acceptance of Biefang's gender identity. Some soldiers struggle to reconcile their preconceived notions of gender with their respect for her as a commander, while others embrace the opportunity to work under a leader who challenges traditional norms. The battalion, too, goes through its own process of growth and change, learning how to operate in a more inclusive environment. This theme of mutual transformation is central to the film. Biefang’s experience of transitioning from male to female in a high-ranking position serves as a metaphor for the broader cultural shifts occurring in the military. As her battalion adapts to her leadership, it reflects the changing attitudes toward gender and identity within German society as a whole.
 
Despite the largely positive reception of Biefang’s transition within the military, her journey has not been without its challenges. In 2019, Biefang faced a legal issue related to her off-duty behavior. A disciplinary action was taken against her after a Tinder profile she had created contained language that was deemed inappropriate for someone in her position as a commanding officer. The controversy stemmed from the fact that her profile mentioned her sexual openness, leading to an official reprimand for violating the military’s code of conduct regarding off-duty behavior. This episode highlights the complexities of navigating personal identity and professional responsibilities, especially in such a high-profile and high-stakes environment. Although Biefang appealed the reprimand, the German court upheld the decision, reinforcing the idea that military personnel, particularly those in leadership positions, must maintain a certain level of decorum both on and off duty. For Biefang, this ruling became another point of contention in her ongoing struggle for full acceptance and equal treatment within the military.
 
As of 2024, Anastasia Biefang remains an influential figure in both the German military and the LGBTQ+ community. Her journey has inspired many, not only within the armed forces but also in broader conversations about gender, identity, and inclusion. She serves as the deputy chairperson of QueerBw, an organization dedicated to advocating for the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals in the Bundeswehr. Additionally, she has become an active member of the German Society for Trans" and Inter" Gender Identity (DGTI), further cementing her role as a voice for marginalized communities. Biefang’s story is one of resilience, courage, and leadership. "I Am Anastasia" offers an in-depth and personal look at her transformative journey, showcasing the challenges of reconciling personal and professional identities, and the power of acceptance and inclusivity within one of the world’s most rigid institutions. In conclusion, "I Am Anastasia" is not just a documentary about a transgender officer in the German military—it is a testament to the power of authenticity, the importance of representation, and the potential for change within even the most traditional environments. Anastasia Biefang's legacy as the first openly transgender battalion commander in the Bundeswehr is not only a personal triumph but also a milestone for LGBTQ+ rights and visibility in military institutions worldwide.
 
via: youtube
Image credits: YouTube
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