Almost everyone has heard of I am Cait, the documentary following Caitlyn Jenner and her transition. But, most people don’t realize that there are many other shows, documentaries, movies, and books that have been around for years highlighting the struggles members of the trans community face. These five forms of media are good representations of the individual and political battles that come with being transgender, and they will give you a better understanding of what these individuals' lives are actually like.
- Girl Inside
Girl Inside is a documentary that follows the three-year journey of Madison’s transition from male to female. We get an in-depth look into her emotional, physical, and spiritual voyage as she becomes who she’s always been on the inside. This documentary isn’t all seriousness, though, as Madison’s grandmother is by her side, hilariously advising and encouraging her throughout the entire process. Madison represents a generation of transgender women and showing the details of her transformation is touching and inspiring for everyone. - Redefining Realness
This New York Times bestselling memoir is the story of Janet Mock, former People magazine editor, and her “Path to Womanhood, Identity, Love & So Much More.” Mock discusses her personal struggles and doesn’t shy away from the political struggles of being transgender. This book takes you on an emotional journey right alongside Mock, and the themes are quite universal about becoming the person you want to be. - Tomboy
Tomboy is a French film that follows a young girl who is experiencing gender dysphoria. After the family moves to a new neighborhood, the main character begins dressing like a boy and going by the name, Mikael. This touching movie follows Mikael’s struggles with fitting in with the other boys in the neighborhood, befriending a girl, and gaining acceptance from his own family. - Taboo: Changing Gender
“Changing Gender” is one episode of the National Geographic series, Taboo, that obviously focuses on topics that are usually not discussed in society. The most interesting idea that this episode highlights is that while some transgender individuals want to go from male to female or vice versa, there are also some individuals who want to remain in the middle of the gender spectrum. Chris Tina Bruce is one of those individuals, and she tells her story and struggles of being transgender in the world of competitive bodybuilding. - Boys Don’t Cry
Starring Hilary Swank in the lead role (who won an Oscar for her performance), this movie captures the tragic story of a transgender man, Brandon Teena, who is tortured by his male friends after they find out that he is transgender. This movie is based on the real events and will bring you to tears as you watch Brandon try to find himself and overcome the horrifying events of his past.
