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BY ELLA GAUCI, IMAGE BY AMAZON MGM STUDIOS
In these troubling times globally for trans rights, it’s important to place trans voices and stories at the forefront. Whether that be through marching for trans rights, listening to trans artists, or even just sticking on one of these films this evening. The canon of trans films is still severely lacking, but there might be one or two new titles on this list that you’ve never heard of before.
Summer Solstice (2023)
Directed by trans non-binary filmmaker Noah Schamus, Summer Solstice follows Leo, a trans man, and his friend Eleanor on a weekend trip. The film begs the age-old question: can bad sex and good friends mix? The film stars trans, non-binary actor Bobbi Salvör Menuez.
Alice Júnior (2019)
This Brazilian coming-of-age film needs to be on everyone’s watchlist. At the heart of this film is trans teenager Alice and her quest to have her first kiss. Alice, a YouTuber who has everything she could ask for, finds herself being relocated to a small, conservative town. What follows is a story of helping schoolmates and teachers rethink their conservative views while also securing that precious first peck.
Bit (2019)
Love vampires? Then you’re going to love Bit. With trans activist and actor Nicole Maines in the leading role, Bit follows the story of a trans teen on summer vacation who falls in with four queer, feminist vampires. What are they after? Ridding the streets of predatory men.
By Hook Or By Crook (2001)
This noughties film is often left out of compulsory queer films to watch. But make no mistake, it’s definitely worth seeing. This seminal transmasculine film by Silas Howard follows two friends bonding over petty crimes and working out their place in the world. It’s a buddy comedy like no other.
Anything’s Possible (2022)
Say it with me: we need more trans rom-coms! Directed by Billy Porter, Anything’s Possible follows Kelsa and Khal as they navigate their budding romance in school. While their story has a few ups and downs, this heartfelt tale of first love is exactly what we need more of on screen.
Lingua Franca (2019)
This Philippine-American drama follows Olivia, a trans woman who is paranoid about deportation. When the man she’s secretly paying for a green card backs out, she forms a bond with a slaughterhouse worker. Written, directed and starring Isabel Sandoval, it’s not to be missed.
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