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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Tjejer som oss

Release Year: 2016
Title in English: Girls like us

Synopsis:
"Tjejer som oss" (translated as "Girls Like Us") is a Swedish reality documentary series that aired in 2016 on SVT Play. The series brings to the forefront the lives of five transgender women from Sweden, offering a rare and intimate glimpse into their experiences navigating soul-searching, dating, partying, and ordinary day-to-day life. This series marks a significant milestone in the visibility of transgender people, particularly those in Sweden, where issues surrounding gender identity have gained increasing attention and acceptance.
 
In the past, transgender people often faced invisibility, discrimination, and ridicule, their stories marginalized or misrepresented in the media. However, "Tjejer som oss" presents a different narrative—one where transgender women are given the lead roles, celebrated for their individuality, and seen standing confidently on stage, appearing on the covers of fashion magazines. The series highlights how these women are no longer just defined by their gender transition but are multi-dimensional individuals with their own aspirations, challenges, and victories. The five protagonists of "Tjejer som oss" are Saga, Vanessa, Xenia, Ivy, and Heidi. Each of them comes from a different background and brings a unique set of experiences to the table. Together, they share their stories of self-discovery, relationships, and the daily joys and struggles that come with living authentically. 
 
Saga Becker, one of the most well-known figures in the series, has been a prominent voice in the Swedish transgender community. In 2015, she won the prestigious Guldbagge Award, Sweden’s highest film honor, for her role in the film ""Året jag slutade prestera"". In "Tjejer som oss", Saga emphasizes the importance of transgender people being able to tell their own stories. She declares, “It’s finally our turn to tell our story. We are all more than the gender we are assigned. What you have between your legs does not define who you are as a person.” Saga’s statement encapsulates the core message of the series. "Tjejer som oss" isn't just about gender transition; it is about celebrating the complex identities of transgender people beyond their gender expression. It shows that transgender individuals, like anyone else, have a range of experiences, desires, and ambitions that shape their lives. 
 
One of the standout figures in the series is Vanessa Lopez, who hails from Malmö. Vanessa made history in Sweden by becoming the first transgender woman to participate in the Swedish version of the reality show "Big Brother". Her journey of self-discovery began when she started her gender transition at the young age of 17. Since then, Vanessa has become a prominent figure within the transgender community. In 2015, she won the Miss Trans Star International title in Barcelona, being crowned the most beautiful transgender woman in the world. Vanessa’s presence on the show reflects the broader shift in the visibility of trans women in media and fashion. In her 2014 interview with Monika Kowalska for Heroines of My Life, she opened up about her transformative journey and the inspirations behind her autobiography Jag har ångrat mig ("I Changed My Mind"). She reflected on how societal gender norms influenced her experience as a transgender woman and the challenges she faced in her transition, advocating for a deeper acceptance of gender diversity and drawing inspiration from Native American two-spirited people.
 
Xenia Klein is another key figure in the series. A student at the prestigious Konstfack University of Arts in Stockholm, Xenia has an academic and artistic perspective on gender. She is currently writing a chapter on the concept of “neofittan” (a term referring to modern femininity) in a new coffee-table book. Xenia’s intellectual and artistic exploration of gender adds another layer of depth to the series, highlighting the diversity of experiences within the transgender community.
 
Ivy Rosenauer, who hails from Skåne, is another compelling character in "Tjejer som oss". She lives with her boyfriend in Copenhagen, where she works as a DJ and model. Ivy’s story reflects the journey of a transgender woman who is actively building her career while also preparing for her gender confirmation surgery. Through her, the series explores the realities of living as a transgender woman in the world of fashion and entertainment, an industry often criticized for its lack of diversity and inclusion. 
 
Heidi Ingensdotter’s story is one of resilience and courage. Born in Iran into a strict religious family, Heidi faced immense challenges growing up. Her journey to self-acceptance was fraught with struggle, but she eventually fled to Sweden in search of a life where she could live authentically. Heidi now works as a model, and her story serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices many transgender people make in their pursuit of freedom and self-expression. 
 
"Tjejer som oss" is an important milestone in the media representation of transgender people. By featuring a diverse group of transgender women with different backgrounds and experiences, the show provides a nuanced portrayal of their lives. It challenges stereotypes and offers a much-needed platform for transgender voices to be heard. The series is also a powerful counter-narrative to the often one-dimensional and sensationalized portrayals of transgender people in mainstream media. By focusing on their everyday lives, relationships, and personal growth, "Tjejer som oss" shows that transgender women are more than just their gender identity—they are individuals with dreams, ambitions, and the same emotional experiences as anyone else. Moreover, the show's success highlights the growing acceptance of transgender people in Sweden and beyond. In recent years, there has been a notable shift towards greater inclusivity and representation of transgender individuals in media, politics, and social life. "Tjejer som oss" reflects this broader cultural change, offering a platform for transgender people to tell their own stories and challenge societal norms. 
 
"Tjejer som oss" is a groundbreaking documentary series that provides an honest and heartfelt portrayal of the lives of transgender women in Sweden. It gives a voice to individuals who have long been silenced or misunderstood, offering an intimate look at their joys, struggles, and triumphs. Through the stories of Saga, Vanessa, Xenia, Ivy, and Heidi, the series sheds light on the complexity of gender identity and the importance of living authentically. In doing so, it contributes to the ongoing conversation about transgender rights, representation, and equality, helping to foster a more inclusive society for all.
 
Image credits: YouTube 

My interview with Vanessa Lopez: Heroines of My Life
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