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: Peppe Lanzetta
Release Year: 2012
Synopsis:
"Sara Sarà" (2012), a short film directed by Peppe Lanzetta, offers a refreshing and poignant glimpse into the life of a transgender woman, presenting her not as a figure of pity or sympathy, but as a vibrant, self-assured individual whose personal and professional identity are as multifaceted as they are empowering. The film tells the story of Sara Carbone, also known as Sara Charlotte, a transgender woman from Naples who works as both a hairdresser and a performer in burlesque shows. With its focus on Sara’s confidence and ambition, Lanzetta’s film stands out for its groundbreaking portrayal of the transgender experience, emphasizing joy, resilience, and self-determination rather than the suffering or victimization often associated with such narratives.
Sara is depicted as a woman with a rich and fulfilling life that includes a successful career in the arts and a deep love for beauty and performance. As a burlesque artist, Sara’s performances blend glamour, sensuality, and humor, allowing her to express herself in a way that transcends the conventional norms often imposed on women, particularly transgender women. The film highlights her exceptional talent as a makeup artist and hairstylist, skills she has honed over the years to become not just a professional but a key figure in the artistic community of her neighborhood. These talents are central to the narrative, which showcases Sara as someone who is deeply engaged in her work and capable of inspiring others, especially the younger generation. She dreams of creating a cultural and artistic project that could engage the kids in her area, encouraging them to explore their own creativity and sense of self.
2012,
Italian,
Italy,
Sara Carbone,
Director: Lina Cascella & Cinzia Sarto
Release Year: 2004
Synopsis:
Femmina Per Grazia Ricevuta (2004), directed by Lina Cascella and Cinzia Sarto, is an intimate and poignant documentary that captures the journey of Sara Carbone, a transgender woman who courageously confronts the complex and often painful realities of gender identity, discrimination, and societal rejection. The title, roughly translated as "Female by Grace Received," alludes to both the grace and the struggle that come with Sara's transformation and the societal forces that push against her as she seeks recognition and acceptance in a world that refuses to understand or accommodate her.
The documentary stands out not only for its exploration of transgender identity but also for the deeply human story it tells—one of resilience in the face of immense personal and societal obstacles. Through the lens of Sara Carbone’s life, Femmina Per Grazia Ricevuta offers a broader reflection on gender, identity, and the fight for the right to exist authentically in a world that demands conformity. The film was praised for its raw, unsentimental portrayal of Sara’s life and for its unflinching exploration of the difficulties transgender people often face, particularly in terms of social marginalization, personal relationships, and bureaucratic barriers.
2004,
Italian,
Italy,
Sara Carbone,
