Becoming More Visible

Director Pamela French's Becoming More Visible, a documentary focusing on the transgender experience, bounces back and forth between four engaging participants who live in New York City. Born in Bangladesh, Katharine hides her secret from her parents but has received support from a teacher (who gave her a first dress); here, there's an intimately uncomfortable translated exchange between Katherine and her mother (as well as a little brother who when asked if he minds about the transition says, “Not really…they wanted a girl,” but maybe not “that kind”). Sean's upbringing in a rural area served as backdrop for being called a “tomboy.” His supportive mom struggles with administering the shots that Sean uses to help his transition. Over the course of the film, larger than life bipolar Olivia stops taking her antipsychotics, wants to drop hints to her family, and is bullied by a group of disrespectful schoolchildren. Urban chic Morgin is fully transitioned, and her story includes homelessness, drugs, foster care, and trouble with maintaining her new genitalia. Also featuring archival photos and home movies, along with commentary from experts including author Andrew Solomon, this intimate look at transgendered young adults is highly recommended. Aud: C, P. (J. Williams-Wood)