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.
Director: Ryan Maxey
Release Year: 2019
Synopsis:
Ryan Maxey's How to Make a Rainbow (2019) offers a heartfelt exploration of the complexities surrounding LGBTQ parenthood, particularly the unique challenges of coming out to children. In this poignant short documentary, viewers are introduced to a young trans mother who navigates her parenting journey with resilience and grace. Through the lens of her relationship with her child, the film provides invaluable insights into how conversations about gender can be approached with sensitivity and understanding.
Traditionally, narratives surrounding coming out focus on the experiences of LGBTQ individuals disclosing their identities to friends and family. However, How to Make a Rainbow shifts this perspective, placing emphasis on a lesser-discussed aspect: the coming out process for LGBTQ parents as they reveal their identities to their children. This nuanced approach is crucial, as it highlights the complexities involved in raising a child while navigating personal identity.
The film centers around a trans mother who is determined to foster an open and supportive relationship with her child. As she shares her experiences and challenges, viewers witness the deep love and commitment she has for her family. This focus on the parent-child relationship underscores the importance of communication, trust, and emotional support in nurturing a child’s understanding of gender.
Director: Tania Cypriano
Release Year: 2019
Synopsis:
Tania Cypriano's documentary Born to Be offers an intimate and powerful glimpse into the transformative world of gender-affirming healthcare at the Mount Sinai Center for Transgender Medicine and Surgery in New York City. With unprecedented access to the personal and professional life of Dr. Jess Ting, the film showcases how compassionate medical care can profoundly impact the lives of transgender and gender non-binary individuals.
Set against the backdrop of a rapidly evolving landscape of transgender rights and medical care, Born to Be captures the groundbreaking efforts of Dr. Ting, who has dedicated his career to providing quality gender-affirming care. The film illustrates how Mount Sinai has become a beacon of hope for many, offering a range of surgical procedures that can help individuals align their physical appearance with their gender identity.
Dr. Ting’s journey from a renowned plastic surgeon to a pioneering gender-affirming specialist is a compelling narrative of personal and professional transformation. As he navigates the challenges and triumphs of his patients, viewers witness not just the medical procedures but also the emotional and psychological journeys that accompany them.
2019,
English,
Garnet Rubio,
