Five Movies with Trans Actors
I don't write about trans rights issues, but I can at least direct you to some great movies with trans actors in them
I’ve been in a bit of a funk lately. Nearly all of my kids are trans so the onslaught of anti-trans legislation weighs on me all of the time. They are adults, so most legislation has not been aimed at them, but that’s not true for folks in Missouri, and some bills being discussed in other states and even here in West Virginia are a little dicey for trans adults. And then we have Montana Representative Zooey Zephyr being removed from the house floor, essentially disenfranchising 11,000 constituents. None of this affects me directly, but seeing parents like me who support their trans kids being cast as villains and trans people themselves being considered almost sub-human feels pretty awful most of the time.
Those aren’t topics I write about - you should follow Erin in the Morning for a fairly comprehensive look at all of the issues facing trans people right now. But I do write about movies, and we are finally starting to see trans actors in some really good movies. So if you’re looking for something to watch featuring trans actors, check out one of these films.
Anything’s Possible - I just published a review I wrote for this one last week, so go check that out. But truly, this is such a sweet little teen rom-com. I’m from just outside of Pittsburgh, so I love all of the nods to one of my favorite places, and Eva Reign is just darling in this. (available on Prime Video)
Promising Young Woman - Laverne Cox is most well-known for her role as Sophia Burset on the Netflix show Orange is the New Black, but one of my favorite roles she’s played in film was Gail in Promising Young Woman. I love that movie pretty much in every way, and seeing a trans woman of color in it just makes it all the better in my mind. (available with ads on freevee)
Assassination Nation - This movie was the first time I saw Hari Nef perform, and she is brilliant in it. The story isn’t perfect (the descent to madness is a little abrupt for my taste), While there is violence perpetrated against all of the girls, including Nef as Bex, she is never misgendered or deadnamed. And truly, the final showdown really is something else. (available on Cinemax)
Bros - Billy Eichner is kind of a love him or hate him guy, but I will say, he hired a ton of queer and trans actors for his rom-com. Trans actors include Miss Lawrence, TS Madison, and Eve Lindley. This movie is funny and smart and sweet. We seldom get movies that include so many LGBTQ folks and aren't just trauma dumping, so this is definitely one worth checking out. (available on Prime Video)
A Man Called Otto - I love that a super mainstream movie included a trans character played by trans actor Mack Bayda. He gives a heartfelt performance and is truly lovely in all of his scenes. You can read my full review of the movie here, but it’s a cozy watch. (available wherever you rent movies)
What are some of your favorite movies featuring trans actors? And to any of my trans readers, please know that I’m on your side and will do whatever is in my power to help protect you. We need you here.