Looking to curl up and immerse yourself in some fantastic, trans-affirming films? Great news! You have plenty of options! Let’s dive into five highly-rated transgender-themed movies you can stream this weekend, perfect for solo viewing, a couple’s night, or a family movie marathon.
1. Tangerine (2015)
This vibrant and gritty comedy-drama follows Sin-Dee Rella, a transgender sex worker who gets out of prison on Christmas Eve to discover her boyfriend and pimp have been cheating on her. With her feisty best friend Alexandra by her side, Sin-Dee embarks on a boisterous, laugh-out-loud mission across Los Angeles to find him. Fun fact: Tangerine was shot entirely on iPhones!
Find it on: Hulu, Kanopy (With a library card), and other streaming services
Audience Score on Rotten Tomatoes: 96%
2. The Danish Girl (2015)
This historical drama portrays the journey of Lili Elbe, one of the first known recipients of gender-affirming surgery. Eddie Redmayne and Alicia Vikander deliver compelling performances in this poignant exploration of love and identity.
Find it on: HBO Max, Peacock (With subscription) and other streaming services
Audience Score on Rotten Tomatoes: 71%
3. Cowboys (2020)
This heartfelt drama centers around Troy, a trans boy who runs away with his supportive father (Steve Zahn) when his mother rejects his identity. Their journey through the Montana wilderness becomes a quest for self-acceptance and understanding. Be ready to shed a few tears (happy and sad!) with this one.
Find it on: Available to rent or purchase on multiple platforms
Audience Score on Rotten Tomatoes: 82%
4. Disclosure (2020)
This groundbreaking documentary dives deep into the history of transgender representation in Hollywood. With interviews from prominent trans actors like Laverne Cox and insightful analysis, ‘Disclosure’ explores how on-screen portrayals have shaped society’s understanding (and often misunderstanding) of the trans community. You’ll leave this film with an entirely new perspective.
Find it on: Netflix
Audience Score on Rotten Tomatoes: 97%
5. A Fantastic Woman (2017)
This Chilean drama won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film, and with good reason. Daniela Vega gives a stunning, powerhouse performance as Marina, a transgender woman facing discrimination and suspicion after the sudden death of her older boyfriend. Prepare for a film filled with resilience, strength, and a touch of magical realism.
Find it on: Hulu, Kanopy (With a library card) and other streaming services
Audience Score on Rotten Tomatoes: 91%
Other films for those who have already seen these:
- TRANSFINITE (2019) This sci-fi anthology, composed of seven standalone stories, showcases supernatural trans and queer people of color who use their powers to protect, love, teach, fight, and thrive.
- Brace (2015) Available on YouTube, this short film delves into the journey of two transgender individuals in London, exploring themes of identity, friendship, and transformation.
- Paris is Burning (1990) A poignant documentary spotlighting New York’s drag scene in the 1980s, focusing on the joys and struggles of the ball culture and its African-American, Latino, gay, and transgender communities.
- Boy Meets Girl (2014) A romantic comedy that challenges traditional norms around gender and sexuality, featuring a transgender protagonist exploring love and friendship in rural Kentucky.
- Ma Vie en Rose (1997) This touching Belgian film follows a young child who challenges gender norms, envisioning himself as a girl despite societal expectations.
- Romeos (2011) A compelling German film about a transgender man navigating his new identity and a budding romance highlights the challenges and affirmations of transitioning.
Important Reminders:
- Not every trans person will find these films resonant. Each individual’s experience is unique.
- Some of these films, while important, include outdated or even harmful tropes about transgender people. Use them as a jumping-off point for deeper conversations.
So, there you have it! Pop some popcorn, grab the cozy blankets, and let these films entertain, enlighten, and maybe even offer a sense of belonging this weekend.
