Transgender Documentaries: English | Your Blog Description

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Trantasia

Director: Jeremy Stanford
Release Year: 2006

Synopsis:

"With the dramatic competition to win the crown and a starring role in a controversial new Vegas Revue as a high-stakes backdrop, TRANTASIA explores the intensely private and moving stories of its extraordinary contestants."

"Told through provocative hometown profiles and heartbreaking one-on-one interviews, the groundbreaking film documents the sometimes humorous, always personal journeys of these true survivors. United by common histories of hardship and persecution, their ultimate triumph is a moving celebration of the human spirit."

"Pushing the gender-bending envelope with a funny, profoundly touching and thoroughly entertaining sensibility, TRANTASIA combines the intense drama of this one-of-a-kind contest with unforgettable, over-the-top characters competing for fame and fortune in Sin City."

Director: Jonathan C. Hyde
Release Year: 2021

Synopsis:

"Always Jane is the upcoming four-part coming-of-age docuseries, an intimate and unguarded look at transgender teenager Jane Noury and her family as she prepares to leave home for college. Navigating deeply personal and challenging issues, the Noury family’s uplifting humor and kindness is always present, revealing the transformative power of acceptance, support, and love."

Always Jane, directed by Jonathan C. Hyde, is a poignant documentary that follows the life of Jane Noury, a transgender teenager navigating the complexities of adolescence, identity, and family dynamics. Set against the backdrop of suburban New Jersey, the film provides an intimate look at Jane's journey toward self-discovery and acceptance, highlighting the challenges faced by transgender youth and the unwavering support from loved ones. Through a combination of personal storytelling and candid moments, Always Jane invites viewers to explore the intricacies of gender identity and the power of familial love.

Director: Uknown
Release Year: 2020

Synopsis:

"TransTALE is a docu-love-story that will follow Transgender Activist Maria Roman and Her Musician, Artist fiancé Jason Taylor son as they became the first Trans/Cis Couple to Wed at the historic St John's Cathedral in its over 100 year history in Los Angeles, California in March of 2019. Maria and Jason share their journey to finding love against societal bias standards that continue to shame Cis/Hetero/Men who are attracted and in love with Trans women.

TransTALE follows the most inner moments of Maria and Jason who has defied all odds in their journey to love. Maria and Jason's goal is that their story will inspire other individuals within the Trans spectrum to follow their hearts, spirits and be guided by the resiliency of living authentically."

Maria Roman, also known as Maria Louise Roman-Taylorson, is a renowned transgender activist and actress whose journey has significantly impacted the lives of many in the transgender community. A 50-year-old Puerto Rican Latina woman, Maria has dedicated over 20 years to advocating for transgender rights and services in Los Angeles. Her life story is one of resilience, empowerment, and unwavering commitment to social justice, as she continues to be a role model and leader in her community.

Director: Uknown
Release Year: 1967

Synopsis:

"Queens at Heart," a short pseudo-documentary released in 1967, offers a remarkable look into the lives of transgender individuals and the vibrant drag ball culture of mid-1960s New York City. Long obscured and forgotten, the film was rediscovered by LGBTQ historian Jenni Olson in the mid-1990s and restored by the UCLA Film & Television Archive in 2009 as part of the Outfest UCLA Legacy Project. This restoration has revived interest in a significant cultural artifact that provides invaluable insights into pre-Stonewall queer life.

Set against the backdrop of a time when LGBTQ identities were largely marginalized, "Queens at Heart" stands out for its candid portrayal of the struggles and joys of transgender women and drag performers. The film captures a world where individuals navigated their identities in secrecy and often faced societal rejection. Jenni Olson described the film as “the most significant on every level,” highlighting its unique ability to present a rare glimpse into a community often overlooked in historical narratives.

Director: Rhys Ernst
Release Year: 2016

Synopsis:

"We've Been Around," created by Rhys Ernst and produced by Christine Beebe, is a poignant documentary series that delves into the rich and often overlooked history of transgender pioneers. This innovative series chronicles the lives and contributions of significant figures and movements, including Lucy Hicks Anderson, S.T.A.R. (Street Transvestite Action Revolutionaries), Albert, Little Axe, Lou Sullivan, and CAMP TRANS. By weaving together personal narratives and historical context, the series provides a vital glimpse into the resilience and impact of transgender individuals throughout history.

Each episode of "We've Been Around" focuses on a different subject, shedding light on their unique stories and the broader cultural significance of their lives: Lucy Hicks Anderson: A trailblazer in her own right, Lucy was a prominent figure in the early 20th century who defied societal norms and fought for her identity at a time when such expressions were largely suppressed. Her story highlights the intersection of race, gender, and identity. S.T.A.R. (Street Transvestite Action Revolutionaries): This activist group, founded by Sylvia Rivera and Marsha P. Johnson, played a crucial role in advocating for the rights of transgender and gender-nonconforming individuals, particularly those living on the margins of society. Their legacy continues to inspire modern-day activism.

Director: Sam Feder
Release Year: 2020

Synopsis:

In a pivotal moment for both cinema and social justice, Sam Feder's documentary Disclosure offers an unprecedented examination of transgender depictions in film and television. With the participation of influential trans figures like Laverne Cox, Lilly Wachowski, Yance Ford, and Chaz Bono, the film reveals how Hollywood not only reflects but also shapes societal anxieties about gender. By exploring a rich tapestry of cinematic history, Disclosure provides critical insights into the complexities of trans representation, ultimately urging viewers to rethink their perceptions and assumptions.

At its core, Disclosure confronts the long-standing, often problematic representations of transgender people in media. From early films like A Florida Enchantment (1914) to contemporary works such as Pose, the documentary showcases a range of portrayals that oscillate between dehumanizing and empowering.

Director: Dante Alencastre
Release Year: 2016

Synopsis:

Dante Alencastre's documentary Raising Zoey (2016) is a poignant and inspiring portrayal of family, resilience, and the journey of a young transgender girl. Centered on thirteen-year-old Zoey, her mother Ofelia, and her sister Letty, the film offers a vivid exploration of their lives as they navigate the challenges and triumphs of Zoey's transition, legal battles against discrimination in her public school, and the complexities of adolescence.

Through its intimate lens, Raising Zoey not only illuminates the struggles faced by transgender individuals but also celebrates the power of love, community, and hope in the face of prejudice. At the center of Raising Zoey is Zoey, a vibrant and spirited teenager who embodies the struggles and joys of adolescence. The documentary chronicles her journey of self-discovery as she navigates her identity in a world that can often be hostile to those who dare to be different.

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: Larry Tung
Release Year: 2008
Full title: Envisioning Justice: The Journey of a Transgendered Woman

Synopsis:

Larry Tung's documentary Envisioning Justice: The Journey of a Transgendered Woman offers a compelling and intimate portrait of Pauline Park, a transgender activist and artist whose journey from her early life in Korea to her experiences in the United States reveals the complexities of identity, belonging, and resilience. The film not only chronicles Park's personal transformation but also sheds light on broader social issues, including adoption, race, and the challenges faced by transgender individuals in contemporary society.

Pauline Park’s story begins with her birth in Korea, where she was adopted by European American parents and brought to the United States. This transnational adoption set the stage for a multifaceted identity shaped by cultural differences and the complexities of being both a person of color and a member of the LGBTQ+ community. As the film unfolds, viewers gain insight into Park’s early experiences, highlighting the tensions between her Korean heritage and her American upbringing. In the summer of 2006, Park and filmmaker Larry Tung return to Milwaukee, the city where she grew up. This journey back to her childhood home serves as a pivotal moment in the documentary, as it allows Park to confront her past, revisiting not only her family home but also the schools she attended. These locations serve as physical markers of her formative years, evoking a range of memories and emotions that shape her narrative.

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.

Director: Robert Jason
Release Year: 2011

Synopsis:

In an era of evolving social consciousness, the documentary Born Male, Living Female, directed by Robert Jason, emerges as a powerful narrative that offers an intimate look at the lives of transgender women in New York City. This groundbreaking film dives deep into the experiences of four male-to-female transgender individuals, illuminating their struggles, triumphs, and the unyielding quest for identity and acceptance. Set against a backdrop of societal misunderstanding and resistance, the documentary serves as a vital commentary on the changing landscape of gender identity and expression.

Born Male, Living Female introduces us to a dynamic group of transgender women, each with her unique story, yet bound together by their shared experiences of transitioning. Among them are Cy Lauz, Tiffany Mathieu, Our Lady J, Nina Poon, Stacy Soria, and Simone Tobias. This diverse ensemble represents a rich tapestry of backgrounds, professions, and aspirations, providing a multifaceted view of what it means to navigate life as a transgender woman in a world often unkind to those who defy traditional gender norms.

Producer: Donahue

Release Year: 1991

Synopsis:

In the early 1990s, the landscape of media representation for transgender individuals was shifting, albeit slowly. One pivotal moment in this transformation occurred during Caroline Cossey’s appearance on the Donahue Show in 1991. This was her second visit to the show, and it provided a significant platform for discussing her life, her experiences, and the forthcoming release of her biographical book, My Story, which would be published in 1992. Accompanied by her mother and Count Glauco Lasinio, Cossey's presence on the show was not just a personal milestone but a broader statement about acceptance, identity, and the complexities of being transgender in society.

Hosted by Phil Donahue, the Donahue Show was known for its candid discussions on social issues and featured a diverse array of guests. The show often tackled topics that mainstream media shied away from, making it an ideal venue for voices that needed to be heard. Caroline Cossey’s invitation to return to the show highlighted her growing influence as a transgender model and activist, and it provided a significant opportunity to bring her story to a wider audience.

Producer: Donahue

Release Year: 1990

Synopsis:

In the early 1990s, the visibility of transgender individuals in mainstream media was limited, often overshadowed by stereotypes and misconceptions. Caroline Cossey’s groundbreaking appearance on the Donahue Show in 1990 marked a significant turning point in this narrative. As one of the first transgender women to participate in a talk show with a live audience in the United States, Cossey became a beacon of hope and resilience for transgender individuals around the world, advocating for acceptance, understanding, and dignity.

Caroline Cossey, born in 1954 in England, had already made a name for herself in the fashion world as a model and a showgirl. Yet her journey was far from easy. Before her appearance on Donahue, she had faced numerous challenges, including societal rejection and personal struggles with her identity. However, her determination to live authentically and her desire to raise awareness about transgender issues propelled her into the spotlight. Her participation in the Donahue Show was particularly significant, as it represented one of the first major opportunities for a transgender woman to speak candidly about her life and experiences on American television. The show, hosted by Phil Donahue, was known for tackling difficult social issues and providing a platform for marginalized voices.

Director: Uknown
Release Year: Uknown

Producer: Australian Television Archive

Synopsis:

Alexandra The Great 48 has always been my inspiration. The eloquent and intelligent woman with the face of Sophia Loren and 48-25-42 figure proved to many transgender women that YES, WE CAN!!!!!

The world of burlesque has long been characterized by its dazzling performers, captivating routines, and vibrant personalities. One such luminary is Gayle Sherman, better known as Alexandra The Great "48," whose remarkable journey from the stages of New York to the bright lights of Honolulu and beyond is a testament to her talent and resilience. Her participation in an unknown documentary produced by Australian television serves as an essential glimpse into her life, showcasing the evolution of an artist who embraced her identity and made a significant impact on the world of entertainment.

Directors: Donna McCrum & Andy Canny
Release Year: 2010

Synopsis:

In the realm of documentary filmmaking, few works capture the rich tapestry of identity, culture, and self-expression as poignantly as Sistagirl, directed by Donna McCrum and Andy Canny. This emotionally resonant and visually stunning documentary takes viewers on a transformative journey into the lives of the Sistagirl community of the Tiwi Islands, challenging stereotypes and redefining what it means to be an Indigenous Australian in contemporary society.

Sistagirl centers around the journey of Bindi Cole, an award-winning photographer who embarks on an exploration of Aboriginal identity through her artistic lens. The film is not just a personal narrative; it serves as a broader commentary on the complexities of cultural identity in the face of external perceptions and societal norms. Bindi’s encounter with Jason De Santis, known by his drag persona ‘Foxxy Empire,’ ignites her curiosity about the Sistagirls—transgender women from the Tiwi Islands who embody a unique blend of cultural heritage and personal expression. The Tiwi Islands, located north of Darwin, are home to a vibrant Indigenous community with a rich history and culture. Within this context, the Sistagirls emerge as powerful figures who navigate their identities while remaining deeply rooted in their cultural traditions. This intersection of gender identity and cultural heritage is central to the film’s narrative, offering a refreshing and nuanced perspective on what it means to be both Indigenous and queer.

Director: Timothy Greenfield-Sanders
Release Year: 2016

Synopsis:

In recent years, the visibility of transgender individuals in media has grown significantly, providing an essential platform for voices that have long been marginalized. One landmark contribution to this discourse is The Trans List, a documentary film directed by Timothy Greenfield-Sanders, which aired on HBO in 2016. This poignant film brings together the stories of eleven transgender Americans, each offering unique insights into their lives, identities, and experiences. Through intimate interviews and stunning visuals, The Trans List provides a vital group portrait that illuminates the diversity and complexity of the transgender experience.

The Trans List features an impressive array of individuals, each representing different facets of transgender life. The eleven participants include Buck Angel, Kylar Broadus, Caroline Cossey, Laverne Cox, Miss Major Griffin-Gracy, Caitlyn Jenner, Amos Mac, Nicole Maines, Shane Ortega, Bamby Salcedo, and Alok Vaid-Menon.

Director: Nicole Opper
Release Year: 2017

Synopsis:

In the realm of classical music and opera, the narratives of transgender individuals have often been overlooked or sidelined. However, the short documentary Mezzo by Nicole Opper shines a much-needed spotlight on Breanna Sinclairé, an African American opera singer and the first openly transgender woman to graduate from a major conservatory. Through her story, Mezzo explores the intersection of identity, art, and resilience in a world that has historically imposed rigid norms around gender and performance.

Breanna Sinclairé's path to self-discovery and acceptance has been filled with challenges and triumphs. Growing up in Baltimore, her early experiences in church music laid the foundation for her love of singing. "I was singing from a very young age," she recalls, highlighting the vibrant musical environment of her church.

Director: Wayne Mahon
Release Year: 2016

Synopsis:

Leaving Vogue Moran is a powerful and introspective documentary that chronicles Wayne Mahon’s profound journey of self-discovery after years of embodying the persona of Vogue Moran—the idealized version of masculinity he crafted to navigate the complexities of his life. This documentary not only explores themes of identity and attraction but also delves into the emotional turmoil that accompanies the quest for authenticity in a world that often imposes rigid norms.

Wayne Mahon’s journey begins with his life as Vogue Moran, a character that represents an exaggerated ideal of masculinity. For many years, Wayne immersed himself in this persona, adopting behaviors, appearances, and attitudes that conformed to societal expectations of what it means to be a "man." This transformation provided him with a sense of validation and acceptance, but it also came at a steep cost.

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.

Production: World of Wonder Productions
Release Year: 2015

Synopsis:

In a bold move to broaden its programming, Fuse Network premiered Transcendent on September 30, 2015, introducing audiences to the personal and professional lives of a group of transgender women performing at AsiaSF, a renowned nightclub in San Francisco. Executive produced by a dynamic team including Fenton Bailey, Randy Barbato, Tom Campbell, and others, Transcendent merges the heartfelt realities of its characters with the entertaining elements typical of reality television, creating a unique and impactful series.

AsiaSF is more than just a nightclub; it serves as a vibrant cultural hub where the lives of transgender performers intertwine with those of their audience. The establishment offers a space for expression, celebration, and acceptance, making it an ideal backdrop for a series that aims to spotlight the complexities of transgender identities. Within this setting, viewers meet the show's main cast, each of whom brings their own unique story and perspective to the screen.

Films by Year

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Trantasia

Always Jane

TransTale

Queens at Heart

We've Been Around

Disclosure

Raising Zoey

How to Make a Rainbow

Envisioning Justice

Born To Be

Style Exposed: Born Male, Living Female

Caroline Cossey - 1991 Donahue Show

Caroline Cossey - 1990 Donahue Show

Alexandra the Great "48"

Sistagirl

The Trans List

Mezzo

Leaving Vogue Moran

Presenting Lisa

Transcendent

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