Male or female? Boy or girl? Most of us can answer that question without a second thought. But for some people, the answer isn’t so simple. Go firsthand into the daily lives of three people who are transgender, and witness their struggles for acceptance and the triumphs and hardships they face along the way.
--from 3 Sisters Pictures promo for "American Transgender".
"American Transgender" TONIGHT at 20:00 EDT on the National Geographic Channel.
"American Transgender" is a documentary from 3 Sisters Pictures about three individuals, one Male-to-Female (Clair) and two Female-to-Male (Eli and Jim)' who have "transitioned". "American Transgender" is neither gross (à la the Thailand sex change video) nor shock theater (Rupaul's Drag Race) and, for you parents, it's perfectly fine for children--unless you object to the entire subject.
The piece offers good insight into the areas of gender identity, gender transition and parental reactions "I was just getting used to 'gay' and now..." I'd have liked more on the parents/families and friends and associates.
BTW, Eli's mum looks remarkably like Liza Manelli. Just sayin'.
Other than being one of those "Roll Tide" Bama fans, Eli styles himself just a good ole boy from down South. I could care less about football, but I'm on Planet Texas and one is legally required to give Bama fans grief here... Clair just wants to be a regular girl and Jim went from being a reclusive girl who avoided her peers in school to a bit of heartthrob and model in the trans community. BTW, both Clair and her identical twin brother "came out" as teenagers.
"American Transgender" briefly addresses the offered statistic that "50%" of transgender individuals have been assaulted because of being trans--Jim was attacked at bar. On a side note: there have been a rash of assaults and killings of transgender people back home in D.C. I think "American Transgender" could have delved into the negative experiences some transgender individuals experience--including being thrown out and disowned by family--however, a run-time of 48 minutes can only cover so much material.
"American Transgender" has high production values and tight edits.
If you're looking for an overview and understanding of these issues--this is a good start.
"Lights! Models! Guest list! Just do your best, darling."
--'Edina', "Absolutely Fabulous"
{Edited 09:57 02 MAY 12}
