Films about gender delve into the complex world of gender identity, gender expression, and the social gender roles prescribed by society. These films often explore themes of feminism, masculinity, transgender identity, and the fluidity of gender, shedding light on personal narratives, societal pressures, and the ongoing fight for gender equality and understanding. They can range from documentary to fiction, each offering unique insights into the experiences and challenges related to gender.
“Transamerica”, 2005
Director: Duncan Tucker
A road movie featuring a transgender woman who embarks on a journey across the United States with a son she never knew she had, exploring themes of acceptance, family, and identity.
Starring: Felicity Huffman, Kevin Zegers, Fionnula Flanagan, Burt Young, Elizabeth Peña, Graham Greene, Andrea James, Danny Burstein, Maurice Orozco, Craig Bockhorn;
Production year: 2005;
Genre: drama, comedy, adventure;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 103 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,4;
More information about the film “Transamerica” on the website imdb.com
“Tangerine”, 2015
Director: Sean Baker
Shot entirely on an iPhone, this enlightening film follows a transgender sex worker through Los Angeles on Christmas Eve in search of her boyfriend and pimp, offering a raw and unfiltered look at her life.
Starring: Kitana Kiki Rodriguez, Mya Taylor, Karren Karagulian, Mickey O'Hagan, James Ransone, Luiza Nersisyan, Arsen Grigoryan, Ian Edwards, Scott Krinsky;
Production year: 2015;
Genre: drama, comedy;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 88 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,1;
More information about the film “Tangerine” on the website imdb.com
“Carol”, 2014
Director: Todd Haynes
A romantic drama set in the 1950s, revolving around the complex relationship between two women of different ages and social standings, highlighting the constraints and societal pressures regarding gender and sexuality during that era.
Starring: Cate Blanchett, Rooney Mara, Kyle Chandler, Sarah Paulson, Jake Lacy, John Magaro, Cory Michael Smith, Kevin Crowley, Nik Pajic, Carrie Brownstein;
Production year: 2014;
Genre: drama, melodrama;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 118 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,3;
“XXY”, 2007
Director: Lucía Puenzo
An Argentine film that tells the story of an intersex teenager navigating adolescence, identity, and sexual orientation, while her family decides whether or not to consent to surgery.
Starring: Inés Efron, Ricardo Darín, Valeria Bertuccelli, Germán Palacios, Carolina Pelleritti, Martín Piroyansky, Guillermo Angelelli, César Troncoso, Jean Pierre Reguerraz, Ailín Salas;
Production year: 2007;
Genre: drama, melodrama;
Duration: 86 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7;
More information about the film “XXY” on the website imdb.com
“Disclosure: Trans Lives on Screen”, 2020
Director: Sam Feder
A documentary that examines Hollywood's depiction of transgender people and the impact of those stories on transgender lives and American culture, featuring insights from leading transgender thinkers and creatives.
Starring: Laverne Cox, Bianca Leigh, Jen Richards, Alexandra Billings, Susan Stryker, Yance Ford, Lilly Wachowski, Brian Michael Smith, Tiq Milan, Nick Adams;
Production year: 2020;
Genre: documentary;
Duration: 108 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 8,2;
More information about the film “Disclosure: Trans Lives on Screen” on the website imdb.com
In conclusion, films about gender have played a transformative role in shaping societal perceptions and fostering conversations around the complexities of gender identity and expression. Through powerful storytelling, captivating performances, and innovative direction, these films have not only reflected the evolving landscape of gender discourse but have also pushed boundaries, challenging audiences to rethink traditional norms and embrace a more inclusive understanding of humanity. From the heart-wrenching struggles to the triumphant victories, these cinematic journeys offer a window into the real lives and challenges faced by individuals across the gender spectrum, serving as both a mirror and a beacon for change. As society continues to advance in its recognition and acceptance of diverse gender identities, films about gender will undoubtedly remain instrumental in documenting, inspiring, and influencing the ongoing quest for equality and understanding.
