A Self-Made Man

Lori Petchers' uplifting and moving documentary centers on the life and work of Tony Ferraiolo, a certified transgender youth advocate and life coach working in New Haven, CT. A Self-Made Man alternates between Ferraiolo's own story about being a transgender male and his remarkable support programs for teens and younger children with gender-identity issues. Charismatic, buoyant, and accessible, Ferraiolo is both a friend and an adviser to the kids who come to group meetings, which provide a safe place to hang out, share feelings, and (for the adolescents) receive nitty-gritty counseling. Petchers captures warm and sometimes funny footage of these activities (younger participants often work on art projects, and talk about gender only if the subject comes up), as well as scenes of the parents' support group in session. Along the way, Ferraiolo discusses his own childhood experiences as a girl who knew she was a boy, followed by his later years as a dysfunctional woman who couldn't find purpose or happiness until making the decision to change. Petchers' approach is honest, blunt, open, and consistently positive. Highly recommended. Aud: C, P. (T. Keogh)