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: 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."
2006,
Alecia Cienega,
Cassandra Cass,
Dorae Saunders,
English,
Erica Andrews,
Jahna Steele,
Katella Dash,
Kristina Marie,
Maria Roman,
Mimi Marks,
Monika Kowalska,
Nikki Exotika,
Ruby Kay,
Tiara Russell,
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.
2020,
English,
Maria Roman,
Monika Kowalska,
Producers: Jeremy Stanford, Ted Smith, and Christopher Robert
Release Year: 2010
Country: USA
Synopsis:
Wild Things (2010) is a reality television series that blends the spirit of adventure with a deeply personal narrative, following three transgender women on a fundraising road trip across the United States. The series, produced by Jeremy Stanford, Ted Smith, and Christopher Robert, features Maria Roman, Tiara Russell, and Cassandra Cass, who set out on a mission to raise money for Maria's brother, who is struggling with a life-threatening illness.
The series is notable not only for its unique premise but also for the way it challenges conventional gender roles, stereotypes, and expectations through its portrayal of the daily lives and ambitions of transgender women.
Wild Things initially aired as a part of Canadian television programming on The Movie Network and Movie Central in March 2010, though it gained further attention in 2019, when it resurfaced as a critically appreciated piece that brought to light not only the lives of transgender individuals but also the deep bonds of friendship and the strength of community. The show’s eight episodes chronicle the journey of the three women, who engage in traditionally masculine, blue-collar jobs to earn money. Their mission: to raise funds to help Maria’s brother, whose health is rapidly deteriorating.
2010,
Cassandra Cass,
English,
Maria Roman,
Monika Kowalska,
Tiara Russell,
USA,
Director: Dante Alencastre
Release Year: 2013
Synopsis:
In the 2013 documentary TransVisible: The Bamby Salcedo Story, filmmaker Dante Alencastre tells the powerful and inspirational journey of Bamby Salcedo, a transgender Latina activist and public speaker, who has become one of the most influential figures in the fight for transgender rights and the empowerment of LGBTQIA+ and immigrant communities. Through raw storytelling and vivid personal accounts, the documentary illuminates Bamby’s life, which has been marked by tremendous adversity, resilience, and a passion for social justice.
Bamby Salcedo, born on October 12, 1969, in Guadalajara, Mexico, faced unimaginable challenges early in life. From family rejection to encountering systemic violence in both Mexico and the United States, her story is a testament to survival and the power of reinvention. Today, she is the founder of the TransLatin@ Coalition, a national organization dedicated to advocating for transgender Latinx immigrants, and a widely recognized speaker in the areas of transgender rights, Latinx immigration issues, and health inequalities, particularly concerning HIV.
2013,
Bamby Salcedo,
English,
Maria Roman,
Monika Kowalska,
USA,
Producer: Michael D. Brewer
Release Year: 2013
Full title: In Full Bloom... transcending gender
Synopsis:
The 2012 documentary In Full Bloom, directed by Michael D. Brewer, takes viewers on an intimate and transformative journey into the lives of 15 actors—13 transgender individuals and 2 gay men—whose personal stories are woven into the fabric of a unique theatrical production. The film chronicles the making of Lovely Bouquet of Flowers, a groundbreaking stage play created by playwright and performer Jazzmun Nichcala, and directed by David Hays Gaddas. In Full Bloom is not just a behind-the-scenes look at the production of a play, but a raw and moving exploration of gender, identity, sexuality, and the human experience.
At the heart of In Full Bloom lies the confluence of art and life. The documentary offers an unflinching look at the actors' personal experiences, capturing moments of joy, struggle, vulnerability, and triumph. The 15 performers, who come from a variety of backgrounds and life experiences, each bring their own story to the production of Lovely Bouquet of Flowers. This play, described as unprecedented in its representation of transgender and LGBTQ+ narratives, becomes a platform for these actors to explore their identities in a way that is rarely seen in mainstream theater or film.
The documentary intertwines behind-the-scenes footage of rehearsals with clips from the climactic performance of the play. Through this structure, In Full Bloom allows the audience to see the actors not just as characters on stage, but as real people navigating the complexities of their lives, both on and off the stage. The result is a powerful juxtaposition of fiction and reality, where the actors' stories blend seamlessly into the themes of the play they are performing.
2013,
English,
Gizelle Messina,
Jazzmun Nichcala,
Jazzmun Nichcala Crayton,
Lana Houston,
Maria Roman,
Monika Kowalska,
Nadia Milan,
Nika Blackwell,
Rosalyne Blumenstein,
USA,
