Transgender Documentaries: 2014 | Your Blog Description

Showing posts with label 2014. Show all posts

Presenting Lisa

Director: Sean Bloch
Release Year: 2014

Synopsis:

In the poignant documentary Presenting Lisa, director Sean Bloch invites viewers into the complex and deeply personal journey of Larry, a man whose life has been shaped by decisions made long before he could understand them. This film is not only a story of self-discovery but also a powerful exploration of gender identity, societal expectations, and the enduring quest for authenticity.

At birth, Larry's sex could not be definitively assigned, a reality that left his parents grappling with an unimaginable choice. In a world that often demands clear categorizations, Larry was briefly able to inhabit a unique space—one that allowed for fluidity in gender expression. However, the comfort of this space was short-lived. At just five years old, the decision was made for him: Larry underwent sex assignment surgery, which would seal his fate as a boy. Fast forward sixty years, and we meet a man who has lived much of his life in a role that never felt truly his own. As Larry transitions to Lisa, he embarks on a courageous journey to reclaim an identity that was denied to him as a child. This journey is fraught with challenges, not only as he navigates societal norms but also as he confronts the deeply ingrained beliefs of those around him.

Director: Fernando Olmeda
Release Year: 2014

Synopsis:

In the rich tapestry of Spain's social and cultural evolution, few narratives resonate as powerfully as that of Carla Antonelli. In El Viaje de Carla, directed by Fernando Olmeda, we embark on an intimate exploration of Carla's life as she returns to her hometown of Güímar in Tenerife, Canary Islands, after thirty-two years. This documentary delves into her transformative journey of self-identity, activism, and the deep emotional currents that have shaped her life.

Carla's return to Güímar is not merely a physical journey; it symbolizes a reconnection with her past and a reckoning with the experiences that have defined her. Leaving her hometown in search of a life aligned with her gender identity and free from societal prejudices was a pivotal moment for Carla. In the documentary, we witness her reflections as she revisits the streets of her childhood, the memories flooding back as she engages with friends, family, and former neighbors. This journey is structured in two distinct phases, beginning in 2009 when Carla was honored with a significant award in her municipality. It culminates in 2013 during the main festival in Güímar, a celebration she had not attended since 1976. This homecoming allows viewers to witness the evolution of both Carla and her community over the decades.

Producer: Laverne Cox
Release Year: 2014

Synopsis:

In a groundbreaking move for representation and visibility, actress and activist Laverne Cox produced Laverne Cox Presents: The T Word, an hour-long documentary that dives deep into the lives of seven transgender youths from diverse backgrounds. Released in 2014, the film highlights the unique challenges and triumphs faced by young transgender individuals living in New York, New Orleans, and Baltimore. Through personal stories, candid interviews, and powerful visuals, The T Word sheds light on the realities of being transgender in America today, fostering a deeper understanding of the trans experience.

The documentary follows seven young individuals, ranging in age from 12 to 24 years old, each navigating their own journeys of identity, acceptance, and self-discovery. From the outset, viewers are introduced to a vibrant tapestry of personalities, each with their own unique story and perspective.

Director: Silas Howard
Release Year: 2014

Synopsis:

"Sticks & Stones," directed by Silas Howard, is a compelling documentary that delves into the life and legacy of Bambi Lake, a legendary figure in San Francisco's vibrant LGBTQ+ scene. With a blend of personal storytelling and historical reflection, the film takes viewers on a journey through Polk Street, a significant location in the history of transgender performance art and nightlife. At its heart, "Sticks & Stones" is a tribute to resilience, creativity, and the often-overlooked narratives of those who paved the way for future generations.

Bambi Lake is not just a performer; she is a cultural icon whose life embodies the spirit of the San Francisco arts community during a transformative era. Known for her flamboyant style and dynamic performances, Bambi gained notoriety as a transgender entertainer in the 1970s. Her work has been instrumental in shaping the landscape of LGBTQ+ performance art, particularly during a time when visibility for transgender individuals was severely limited. The film introduces audiences to Bambi as she shares her personal anecdotes, recounting her experiences on Polk Street—one of the hubs of LGBTQ+ nightlife in San Francisco. This area was alive with energy, creativity, and a sense of community, serving as both a sanctuary and a stage for many performers like Bambi.

Director: Erica Tremblay
Release Year: 2014

Synopsis:

"In the Turn," directed by Erica Tremblay, is a powerful and deeply moving documentary that follows the life of Crystal, a 10-year-old transgender girl growing up in rural Canada. Released in 2014, the film offers an intimate look at Crystal’s journey as she navigates the complexities of her gender identity amidst a challenging environment fraught with misunderstanding, bullying, and familial strain. Tremblay’s documentary not only highlights the struggles faced by transgender youth but also underscores the impact of societal attitudes on individual lives and the families that support them.

At the heart of "In the Turn" is Crystal, a young girl who is determined to embrace her true self despite the significant obstacles in her path. The documentary presents her as a vibrant and hopeful individual, whose spirit shines through even in the face of adversity. Through Crystal’s eyes, viewers gain insight into the emotional turmoil of growing up transgender in a rural setting where acceptance is not guaranteed. Crystal's narrative is compellingly personal; her experiences resonate deeply as she articulates the joy and pain of her identity. The film captures her innocence and resilience as she tries to assert herself in a world that often refuses to acknowledge her existence. As she grapples with her identity, Crystal’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the strength of young people as they navigate the complexities of self-acceptance.

Director: Ritesh Sharma
Release Year: 2014

Synopsis:

"Rainbows Are Real," directed by Ritesh Sharma, is a poignant documentary that offers an intimate glimpse into the lives of three transgender individuals living in Kolkata. Through the experiences of Anu, Tracy, and Pauli, the film explores the multifaceted realities of their existence—navigating societal rejection, personal aspirations, and the vibrant tapestry of their day-to-day lives. While it does not shy away from the darker aspects of their journeys, the documentary ultimately celebrates the beauty and resilience of its subjects, painting a picture filled with the psychedelic colors of the rainbow.

The film centers around three compelling characters, each embodying different facets of the transgender experience. Pauli, a sex worker, is open about her struggles but also her joys, sharing her story with a raw honesty that invites empathy. She is a testament to the resilience of those who have been forced into survival mode, navigating the complexities of her work while maintaining a fierce sense of identity.

Director: Sam Feder
Release Year: 2014

Synopsis:

"Kate Bornstein Is a Queer and Pleasant Danger," directed by Sam Feder, offers an illuminating portrait of Kate Bornstein, a trailblazer in the world of gender theory and LGBTQ+ activism. Bornstein's journey, as chronicled in this documentary, is one of resilience, creativity, and transformation, making her a central figure in discussions about gender and identity. Bornstein is best known for her groundbreaking book, Gender Outlaw: On Men, Women, and the Rest of Us, which has become a cornerstone text in queer theory. In her work, she challenges the rigid binary concept of gender, paving the way for countless individuals to explore and embrace their identities beyond traditional norms.

At the heart of the documentary lies Bornstein's candid reflection on her life experiences, from her early days as a member of the Church of Scientology to her battles with cancer. The film delves into the dualities of her existence: the activist and the artist, the public figure and the private individual. Feder captures this dichotomy with a blend of humor, poignancy, and raw honesty. Bornstein's artistic expressions—whether in her performances or written works—serve as vehicles for her activism. They invite audiences to confront their perceptions of gender and identity, encouraging a dialogue that is both necessary and urgent. The documentary not only showcases her vibrant performances but also the painful realities she faced, such as alienation from some segments of the LGBTQ+ community.

Director: Nikki Araguz Loyd
Release Year: 2014

Synopsis:

In the vibrant tapestry of American narratives, few stories resonate as deeply as that of Nikki Araguz Loyd. Her life, a mosaic of triumphs, challenges, and unwavering spirit, is the centerpiece of the compelling eight-episode docu-series, "Nikki's American Dream." This series provides an engaging, feisty, and often hilarious glimpse into the complexities of Nikki's existence as a same-sex marriage activist, author, and public speaker. Through candid interviews, personal reflections, and rich storytelling, the series highlights Nikki's resilience in the face of adversity and her relentless pursuit of justice and love.

Nikki Araguz was born on June 4, 1975, and from a young age, she exhibited the qualities that would later define her—strength, charisma, and an unwavering sense of self. Growing up in a world often unkind to those who dared to be different, Nikki's journey into adulthood was marked by her vibrant personality and tenacity. Her early forays into the media world and advertising laid the groundwork for her later endeavors, including the publication of Wharton County Living magazine, which showcased her knack for storytelling and community engagement.

Director: Shirly Berkovitz
Release Year: 2014

Synopsis:

Shirly Berkovitz’s documentary, The Good Son, presents a powerful and evocative exploration of identity, family dynamics, and the courage it takes to live one's truth. The film chronicles the journey of a 22-year-old individual, Or, who navigates the complex terrain of gender identity and familial relationships in a conservative environment. By financing a sex change operation in Thailand while deceiving her parents, Or embarks on a profound transformation that challenges both her own identity and her family's understanding of love and acceptance.

The Good Son begins with Or living a double life, bound by the expectations and beliefs of her conservative family. She initially presents herself as a son, conforming to her parents' views and societal norms. However, the internal struggle grows unbearable, leading Or to make the life-altering decision to transition. With a mix of determination and fear, she raises the funds for the procedure in Thailand, a country known for its gender-affirming surgeries. This choice marks the beginning of a transformative journey that is not just physical but deeply emotional. The film captures Or’s anticipation and anxiety as she prepares for the surgery, underscoring the stakes involved. The operation is not merely a personal goal; it symbolizes her quest for authenticity in a world that often resists such truths.

Director: Thomas Wallner
Release Year: 2014
English title: Before the Last Curtain Falls

Synopsis:

Thomas Wallner's documentary "Before the Last Curtain Falls" (German: Bevor der letzte Vorhang fällt) emerges as a poignant exploration of identity, love, and aging through the lives of a remarkable group of drag and transgender cabaret performers. Released in 2014, the film chronicles the journey of these artists as they prepare for their final show in Ghent after a successful international tour of the acclaimed cabaret "Gardenia."

Wallner, a German-Canadian filmmaker known for his ability to capture the human experience, offers a unique lens on the lives of these performers (Gerrit Becker, Richard Dierick, Vanessa Van Durme, Andrea De Laet, Danilo Povolo, Rudy Suwyns, Griet De Backer, Hendrik Lebon, Dirk Van Vaerenbergh, Yong Li and Ashref Mahmoud). He intended to move beyond the stereotypical narratives of transsexuality and homosexuality, aiming instead to highlight broader themes of love, acceptance, and the challenges of aging.

Director: Jonny von Wallström
Release Year: 2014

Synopsis:

Jonny von Wallström's documentary The Pearl of Africa brings to the screen a deeply personal and poignant story of love, resilience, and the human spirit in the face of oppression. The film chronicles the life of Cleopatra "Cleo" Kambugu, a Ugandan transgender woman whose journey toward self-actualization takes place against the backdrop of one of the world's most hostile environments for LGBTQ+ people. Uganda, a nation notorious for its extreme homophobic laws and cultural attitudes, becomes the stage for Cleo’s struggle for survival and love, offering viewers a rare, intimate look at the intersection of gender identity, love, and political turmoil.

The title The Pearl of Africa references Uganda’s historical moniker, a term coined by Winston Churchill, and serves as a metaphor for Cleo’s journey—one that shines with hope despite the overwhelming darkness that surrounds her. The documentary, shot over an 18-month period, is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, as it captures Cleo's painful and transformative path from living as a young, closeted man to transitioning into a woman. This is a journey that is not only personal but also political in the context of Uganda’s oppressive laws and social climate toward LGBTQ+ individuals.

Director: Vivienne Chen
Release Year: 2014

Synopsis:

In 2013, Vivienne Chen, a filmmaker and activist, produced a short documentary titled The Third Gender. The 20-minute film offers an intimate look into the lives of Thailand’s trans community, particularly focusing on the kathoey or ladyboy population. Often misunderstood and misrepresented, kathoey refers to individuals who are born male but present and identify as female, or express themselves in ways that defy traditional gender norms. The documentary offers a nuanced perspective on their lives, stories, and struggles, while questioning the extent to which Thai society is as open and accepting of sexual diversity as it might appear.

Funded by the Martin A. Dale Award, The Third Gender is more than just a snapshot of a marginalized group in Thai society; it delves deeply into the personal narratives of those living outside the rigid binary of male and female. Through interviews with kathoeys from various walks of life—performers, filmmakers, activists—the documentary explores not only their experiences of gender fluidity but also the sociopolitical obstacles they continue to face in a country known for its relatively visible and diverse gender expression.

Director: Dacia Saenz & Sara McCaslin
Release Year: 2014

Synopsis:

The Cost of Gender (2014) by Dacia Saenz and Sara McCaslin is a poignant documentary that sheds light on the intersection of gender, health care, and migration, focusing on the transgender community in the United States and their search for affordable, compassionate care in Thailand. The film explores the barriers transgender Americans face within their own healthcare systems, particularly the systemic discrimination and limited access to gender-affirming treatments.

By sharing the personal stories of individuals like Rev. Carla Robinson, an Episcopal pastor in Seattle, and Morgana Love, an opera singer from Mexico City, the documentary reveals how the high cost of transgender healthcare in the U.S. pushes many to seek surgery and medical care in Thailand—where these services are more affordable and often more accessible.

Director: Dean Hamer & Joe Wilson
Release Year: 2014

Synopsis:

Kumu Hina (2014), directed by Dean Hamer and Joe Wilson, is a powerful documentary that explores themes of identity, culture, and community through the life of Hina Wong-Kalu, a native Hawaiian māhū, or transgender, teacher in Honolulu. The film offers an intimate portrait of Hina’s personal and professional journey, highlighting her role as a mentor to a young girl named Ho‘onani, and exploring the complexities of her own life as a transgender woman. In a world that still struggles with understanding gender fluidity, Kumu Hina is a groundbreaking exploration of how indigenous Hawaiian culture embraces gender diversity, offering a unique lens through which to view the intersection of tradition and modernity, self-identity, and the pursuit of love.

The term "māhū" holds a deep significance in Hawaiian culture. Historically, it refers to individuals who embody both male and female qualities and were respected for their ability to bridge the gap between genders. As a māhū, Hina Wong-Kalu occupies a place of cultural significance in Hawai‘i, where her gender identity is both a personal expression and an integral part of her cultural heritage. In the film, Hina not only navigates the complexities of being a transgender woman in contemporary Hawai‘i but also strives to live in harmony with her Hawaiian values, such as respect for family, community, and the land. Kumu Hina invites viewers into her world, exploring her work as a kumu (teacher) and her evolving personal life, in a documentary that is both poignant and empowering.

Producer: AOL
Release Year: 2014

Synopsis:

In 2012, Laura Jane Grace, the frontwoman of punk rock band Against Me!, made a profound announcement that resonated deeply not just in the music world but in the broader cultural landscape: she came out as transgender. This revelation was not merely personal but marked a pivotal moment for the visibility of transgender individuals in the public eye, particularly in music. Grace’s announcement was not a singular event, but part of an ongoing dialogue about identity, gender, and the public's understanding of the transgender experience—something that had been largely absent from mainstream rock music up until that point.

Grace’s journey is deeply intertwined with her artistic expression, and it seems almost inevitable that as she began to transition, her songwriting and public persona would reflect this inner transformation. Her album Transgender Dysphoria Blues (2014) stands as a stark and unapologetic exploration of her experiences with gender dysphoria and the complexities of transitioning. The album was widely lauded for its raw honesty, a characteristic that would become a hallmark of Grace's work. As she later revealed, her transition was not only a personal evolution but an artistic one, giving her the freedom to express herself in ways she had never felt able to before.

Director: Fox Fisher & Lewis Hancox
Release Year: 2014

Synopsis:

"Patchwork: Ayla - Transgender UK" (2014), directed by Fox Fisher and Lewis Hancox, is an intimate and powerful short film that forms part of the Patchwork Digital Storytelling Project, a groundbreaking series of 25 short films that provide a personal and diverse view into the lives of transgender individuals across the UK. The series, commissioned by All About Trans and produced by Lucky Tooth Films in collaboration with Channel 4, is designed to challenge stereotypes and offer a more complex, nuanced perspective on the experiences of transgender people from all walks of life.

In the case of Ayla, the story centers on Ayla Holdom, a courageous and accomplished search and rescue pilot. Through Ayla’s story, the film takes viewers on a deeply personal journey into the challenges and triumphs she has experienced throughout her transition, shedding light on the intersection of gender identity and professional ambition, as well as the ways in which her loved ones—particularly her wife, Wren, and her parents—have navigated and supported her transformation.

Director: Torben Bernhard
Release Year: 2014

Synopsis:

Transmormon (2014), a short documentary directed by Torben Bernhard, explores the complex journey of Eri Hayward, a young transgender woman from Orem, Utah, who grew up within the confines of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS). The 15-minute film provides an intimate glimpse into Eri's life, focusing not only on her gender transition but also on her family dynamics, her Mormon upbringing, and the spiritual and emotional challenges she faced as she navigated the intersection of faith, identity, and societal expectations.

At the heart of Transmormon is the tension between Eri’s identity as a transgender woman and the teachings of the LDS Church, which has historically maintained rigid views on gender and sexuality. Raised as a devout Mormon, Eri faced immense internal conflict when she realized that the gender she was assigned at birth did not align with her true sense of self. As a young child, Eri confided in her father, Ed Hayward, expressing a desire to be a girl. At the time, Ed assumed this was just a phase, as many parents might do when faced with such confessions from their children. However, as Eri grew older, the disconnect between her assigned male gender and her inner identity deepened, leading to feelings of confusion and frustration.

Director: Lesley M. Etherly
Release Year: 2014

Synopsis:

Alexis Martinez, a remarkable figure in the fight for transgender rights and social justice, is the central focus of the 2014 documentary Alexis by Lesley M. Etherly. This film not only chronicles the personal journey of Alexis herself, but also illuminates the broader issues surrounding the fight for transgender human rights, with a particular emphasis on the challenges faced by transgender women of color. Through the lens of Alexis’s story, the documentary underscores the intersectionality of identity, activism, and the battle for systemic change in a society still grappling with deeply entrenched social biases.

Alexis, who identifies as a transgender lesbian woman, has had a significant impact on both local and global conversations surrounding transgender rights. She was recognized by the TRANS100, an annual list that honors the most influential transgender individuals, for her work in advocacy and activism. Her contributions extend beyond mere participation in panels and discussions. She has served as an educator in the field of transgender healthcare, raising awareness about the unique medical and social needs of transgender individuals, and has been a powerful voice in advocating for inclusive policies and legal reforms. Alexis has also been awarded a scholarship to attend the Public Narrative Training for Transgender Organizers in New York City, further cementing her role as a leader in the movement for transgender equality.

Producer: Cat Steel
Release Year: 2014

Synopsis:

"Irish Lives: My Transgender Journey" (2014) is a powerful and deeply personal documentary that delves into the lives of three transgender individuals navigating the complex terrain of gender identity in Ireland. Directed by Cat Steel, this first installment in TV3's Irish Lives documentary series provides an intimate and revealing look at the challenges faced by transgender people in a society that often fails to understand or accommodate their needs. The documentary does not simply focus on the personal journeys of its subjects, but also highlights the broader societal and institutional barriers that make the search for identity so difficult for transgender individuals.

The documentary centers on three main subjects, each at a different stage in their transgender journey. Through their stories, viewers are given a candid glimpse into the complexities of gender identity, self-acceptance, and the fight for recognition and equality. While all three individuals are navigating similar struggles—finding a sense of self in a world that often denies their reality—each one approaches their journey in a unique way, shaped by their personal experiences, background, and the cultural and political environment they inhabit.

Director: Janice Villarosa
Release Year: 2014
Country: USA, Philippines

Synopsis:

Janice Villarosa’s Shunned (2014) is a poignant and revealing documentary that captures the often-overlooked lives of trans women in the Philippines. It chronicles the struggles, dreams, and resilience of a group of transsexual women, including the personalities of Erika Fox, Fiona Solis, and Angel Montero, who, despite facing severe social stigma and discrimination, persist in their pursuit of their identities. Through a beauty contest and a series of candid interviews, Shunned exposes not only the external societal rejection but also the personal and internal battles that these women face as they strive to be recognized as the women they know themselves to be.

The documentary’s strength lies in its unapologetic depiction of its subjects, showcasing their courage and determination to break free from the oppressive societal norms that seek to define them. At the heart of Shunned is the beauty contest — an event that is not just a competition for glamour and fame, but a powerful symbol of their struggle for acceptance and validation. The film intricately explores the tension between the public spectacle of a beauty pageant and the deeply personal experiences of the contestants, showing that the desire to "become the perfect woman" is not about vanity, but rather about gaining respect and recognition in a world that constantly seeks to "shun" them.

Films by Year

Search for a film

Presenting Lisa

El Viaje de Carla

Laverne Cox Presents: The T Word

Sticks and Stones

In The Turn

Rainbows Are Real

Kate Bornstein Is a Queer and Pleasant Danger

Nikki's American Dream

The Good Son

Gardenia: Bevor der letzte Vorhang fällt

The Pearl of Africa

The Third Gender

The Cost of Gender

KUMU HINA

True Trans With Laura Jane Grace

Patchwork: Ayla - Transgender UK

Transmormon

Alexis

Irish Lives: My Transgender Journey

Shunned

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