Transamerica

Synopsis:

Bree is about to get a sex reassignment surgery that will finally allow her to actually be what she’s already been in her mind for a long time: a transitioned woman. Yet before this happens, she suddenly runs into her son who ends up coming for the trip across the United States.

Quick Thoughts:

When “Transamerica” was released in 2006, it was quite groundbreaking! Taking an honest look at a transitioning woman and her struggles in even just transitioning was something not truly seen on screen before, as previously trans characters were more often used as comic fodder. And while this queer adventure film has some good comedic moments, it’s never at the expense of Bree’s transition or being trans. And Felicity Hoffman does a remarkable job bringing Bree to life, while facing hurdle after hurdle in her personal life. That being said… watching “Transamerica” nearly two decades later changes its tone a bit. Today, a woman playing a trans woman would not be acceptable by the general public. There are also quite a bit of stereotypes here that make watching it a bit cringeworthy at times. However, it’s still a good film about being trans in America in the early 2000’s – and quite an adventurous road trip too!