A random collection of films about my transgender and intersex sisters, as well as 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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Jentene on Toten

Producers: Limelight Film and TV og NRK
Release Year: 2010

Synopsis:
"Jentene på Toten" (2010) is a Norwegian documentary series that explores the right to be oneself, focusing on themes of gender identity, gender expression, and societal norms regarding what it means to be a "real" man or woman. The series takes us to Kapp, a small village located on the shores of Lake Mjøsa, where Marion Arntzen and Harald Sundby run the Stensveen Resource Center. This center serves as a safe haven for people exploring their gender identities, particularly transgender individuals. Marion and Harald’s work centers on promoting diversity and providing support to transgender people. Kapp is situated on the eastern side of Lake Mjøsa, just south of Gjøvik, around a two-hour drive north of Oslo. Both Gjøvik and Kapp are part of the Toten district, which inspired the title of the series. 
 
Over eight episodes, the audience gets to know Marion and Harald, as well as ten transgender individuals, each with their own story of navigating a world that often imposes rigid gender expectations. The series introduces viewers to Kaja, Lise, Reidun, Jannicke, Beate, Natasja, Marianne, Randi Beate, Camilla, Sara, and of course, Marion and Harald. We follow them in their daily lives, at work, during social gatherings at Stensveen, in their homes, with family and friends, and in various other settings. 
 
"Jentene på Toten" won the prestigious "Gullruten" (Golden Screen) award for Best Documentary in 2010. It is an eight-episode Norwegian documentary series produced by Limelight Film & TV and first aired on NRK2 in the spring of 2010. The series presents a diverse range of transgender people and sheds light on various aspects of life as a transgender individual, examining the challenges and triumphs of those who defy societal norms regarding gender. Central to the series is the Stensveen Resource Center in Kapp, Toten, Norway. This center has evolved into a sanctuary for transgender people from across Scandinavia. The individuals featured in the series come from different backgrounds and have unique experiences, but at Stensveen, they find a place where they can truly be themselves, connecting with others in the local community and with fellow transgender individuals. Stensveen Resource Center is run by Marion and Harald, who believe strongly in the right of every person to define their own identity. Marion plays a pivotal role in helping transgender individuals achieve a more feminine appearance, offering assistance with breast prosthetics, hair removal, and makeup lessons. Through her work, Marion forms close relationships with many of the people she helps and becomes a vital source of support. She is a central figure for many at Stensveen, while Harald provides essential backing, reinforcing the couple's shared commitment to gender self-definition. ### Episode Highlights: 
 
In the opening episode, viewers meet a group of individuals who have one thing in common: they break societal norms regarding how one is allowed to live and express their identity. Some have come out a long time ago, while others are just beginning their journeys, with both positive and negative experiences. We also meet Reidun, who later in life embraces her identity as a transgender woman. She has developed a close friendship with Harald and enjoys activities like hiking with him in nature. The episode also features a celebration of Norway’s national day, 17th May, at Stensveen, where Marion and Harald host transgender individuals who may not have the opportunity to dress up or celebrate in traditionally feminine ways. A local music ensemble adds to the festive atmosphere. Then Reidun, Kaja, Lise, and Natasja attend the Båstad Gathering in Sweden, a semi-annual event where transgender people from all over Scandinavia gather for a weekend of companionship and solidarity. It provides a space for participants to express their femininity publicly, in a community that embraces them warmly. The episode also introduces Natasja, who is still in the process of transitioning and takes her first steps as Natasha in public. 
 
In the next episode, the group enjoys a picnic by the beach, with Reidun even being tempted to take a swim. We also meet Beate, a blind transgender woman who has struggled for years but is still determined to live authentically. After the gathering, the focus shifts back to everyday life for Kaja and Lise. Kaja, who runs a farm, and Lise, who is working on getting a new passport with her new legal name, face challenges as they navigate bureaucracy in the process of transitioning. Futhermore, Lise continues her battle to get a passport with her new name, feeling deeply uncomfortable about having to travel under her male name. Meanwhile, Jannicke undergoes a painful electrolysis treatment to remove facial hair, and decides to appeal a decision regarding her gender-affirming surgery. In addition, Marianne hopes to receive approval for gender-affirming surgery and visits the Stensveen Resource Center for consultation before her appointment at the G.I.D. clinic in Oslo. The episode also follows Marion and Harald as they visit Reidun's family, where they discuss workplace issues with the local mayor. 
 
Finally, Marion and Harald travel to Malmö to visit friends, and Reidun experiences a milestone—voting for the first time as a woman. We also meet Norman, a transgender man who works as an electrician. Despite always wearing breast implants, he has never told his colleagues about his transgender identity. We are also introduced to Beate, who is visually impaired, and explores her life further. Lise goes on a cabin trip with a friend who has just learned about her transition. The group prepares for the annual summer gathering at Stensveen, where transgender people from far and wide meet for a weekend of bonding and sharing. A special guest, Cårejånni from Great Garlic Girls, gives makeup tips. In the final episode, the Stensveen Resource Center hosts its annual summer gathering. One of Harald's highlights is a boat trip on his Viking ship, Balder. Lise meets with her lawyer to discuss custody issues with her child, while Marianne and Marion attend another consultation at the G.I.D. clinic in Oslo, hoping for an answer regarding the possibility of starting gender-affirming treatment. 
 
Overall, "Jentene på Toten" offers an intimate and diverse portrayal of the transgender experience. It provides insight into the personal lives of transgender individuals, highlighting both their struggles and triumphs as they navigate societal expectations and their own self-discovery. The series not only focuses on individual stories but also explores the critical role of community spaces like Stensveen, where people can find acceptance and support on their journey to living authentically.
 
Image credits: YouTube and saraclaes
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