More Than T

More Than T is a compelling and inspiring documentary directed by Silas Howard. The film presents the untold and mostly suppressed narratives of people navigating life as transgender individuals in America. Released in 2017, the film features Gizelle Messina, Mia Yamamoto, and Octavia Lewis, along with other notable figures from the transgender community. This documentary is different in the sense that it bravely steps into the realm of narratives shared by transgender individuals from diverse walks of life.

More Than T revolves around seven remarkable transgender individuals, who are much more than their transgender identities. Each story presents a genuine struggle, a brave fight, and a triumphant journey of self-discovery and acceptance. It shatters assumptions and broadens the understanding of transgender people by showcasing a richer, deeper examination of their lives beyond society attributed stereotypes.

Gizelle Messina and Mia Yamamoto, spotlight in the film, contribute to unfolding their unique narratives that transcend their gender identity. Gizelle leads her life as a prominent makeup artist, drawing her strength from her primary identity as a parent, while Mia, an accomplished lawyer, sheds light on her life as a successful transgender professional fighting for justice.

One of the crucial characters in the film is Octavia Lewis, an HIV awareness advocate who presents a powerful testimony of courage as she sheds light on the intersection of transgender identity and a health crisis. Her story traces her ongoing endeavor to bring awareness, amidst tackling the multifaceted social challenges that confront her.

The film does a great job introducing the audience to the varying faces of coming-to-be in the transgender community. We see their courage, resilience, determination, and how they have come to thrive, achieving their dreams against the tide of intense opposition. Their unique stories bring out the true essence of the human spirit, characterized by a fierce determination that effectively challenges the narratives typically associated with the transgender community.

Director Silas Howard treats each narrative with deep respect and delicate sensitivity. The documentary does not grapple with shifting the perspective of its audience. Instead, it invites viewers to simply "see" and comprehend the realities of shared stories, dealing with diverse themes from discrimination, inclusivity challenges, family acceptance, and societal backlash, to love, resilience, and personal victory.

More Than T provides its audience with an essential tool—understanding. It allows us a glimpse into the journey of the film's characters, not as defined by their transgender identities, but as dynamic individuals determined to leave their mark in their respective fields, as professionals, artists, parents, and advocates.

The film stands as a rallying cry for true representation and equality. This refreshing approach taken by More Than T is an act of reclaiming the narrative dominated by outsiders. The film carves a space for transgender individuals to speak for themselves by offering them a platform to articulate their own lives, stories, and experiences.

Cinematographically, the film weaves an intimate portrait of each character. Every frame is a sensitive and empathetic exploration of the person beyond the facades of gender identity. The film is not about being transgender, but about people who happen to be transgender living their lives, battling their struggles, and ultimately emerging triumphant in their own ways.

The film's candid conversations and narratives drafted by the individuals themselves without any external manipulations leave a lasting impact that transcends beyond the stereotypes associated with the transgender community. Its primary achievement is in its ability to illuminate the lives of those residing in a marginalized corner of society, whose voices are rarely heard, and whose stories seldom make it to mainstream consciousness.

More Than T is therefore more than a movie—it's a courageous step forward towards understanding, acceptance, and appreciation of the diversity and complexity that resides within human identities. The compelling narratives that it brings on-screen act as a powerful catalyst for positive change, offering a real and profound look at transgender lives in America today.