Tangerine

Tangerine, a groundbreaking movie from 2015 directed by the prolific Sean Baker, features a memorable cast including Kitana Kiki Rodriguez, Mya Taylor, and Karren Karagulian. The movie is Basque in a realism that captures the raw essence of Los Angeles life, set to a backdrop that skillfully captures the tensions, inspirations, and day-to-day narratives of inhabitants of marginalized communities.

Rodriguez plays the role of Sin-Dee Rella, a spirited transgender sex worker who has just been released after a 28-day stint in prison. Taylor, also a transgender woman, portrays Alexandra, Sin-Dee's best friend and confidante. Karagulian plays an Armenian taxi driver named Razmik, whose life is intricately entwined with the daily lives and struggles of these sex workers.

At the heart of the plot is the story of friendship and resilience amidst hardship. Upon learning of her boyfriend's infidelity during her imprisonment, Sin-Dee embarks on a quest throughout the city, with Alexandra by her side, in search of her wayward boyfriend and his suspected lover. This colorful journey through West Hollywood sets the stage for the exploration of their friendship, the harsh realities they face, and the humanity that resides in the most unlikely places.

While Tangerine is renowned for its captivating storytelling and engaging characters, it is equally noted for its innovative and pioneering filming techniques. The movie was filmed entirely on three iPhone 5s smartphones, equipped with anamorphic lens adapters. The result is an intimate, authentic, and visually captivating portrayal of Los Angeles’ lesser-seen neighborhoods. Baker's decision to use iPhones to shoot the film not only demonstrates the democratization of film-making tools but also adds a layer of under-the-radar authenticity to the project.

The film explores multiple themes, from friendship and loyalty, to identity, acceptance, and the struggle to maintain dignity in the face of harsh reality. Baker openly and honestly delves into the experiences and challenges faced by transgender individuals, providing visibility and representation to the transgender community usually overlooked in mainstream cinema. The characters are vibrant and richly textured, lending a remarkable method of storytelling through their unique and individual voices.

Tangerine also provides subtle commentary on race, immigration, and socio-economic class, specifically through the character of Razmik. His dual life as a family man and frequent client of transgender sex workers contrasts the perceived divide between suburban and urban life, between privilege and poverty, and between mainstream and marginalized communities. His storyline sheds light on the diverse, intricate realities that coexist in a cosmopolitan city's unfolding neighborhoods.

The performances from the entirely non-professional cast are incredibly nuanced and natural, particularly Rodriguez and Taylor, whose dynamic and dimensional portrayals of Sin-Dee and Alexandra, respectfully, provide the movie with a captivating narrative lens. The way the duo navigates their personal struggles while maintaining their vibrancy and emotional connectivity is a testament to the power of their performances and the depth of their characters.

A noteworthy mention is the film's sound design that blends well with its swift, erratic visuals. The pulsing electronic soundtrack, interspersed with moments of raw silence, compliments the film's spirit, generating a tactile sense of time and place, synchronizing perfectly with the chaotic beauty of the movie's visual aesthetic.

The humor of Tangerine surfaces from its authentic, unfiltered dialogue and situations, creating moments of laughter that provide a counterpoint to the more serious themes addressed.

In conclusion, Tangerine is a landmark film that beautifully captures a snapshot of a subculture and displays it with raw humanity and grace. Its groundbreaking narrative and innovative techniques provide an intimate portrayal of an unseen side of Los Angeles, offering a compelling exploration of friendship, resilience, and the struggle for acceptance. With a whip-smart script, outstanding performances, and an innovative approach to film-making, Tangerine stands as a vibrant testament to the capacity for compassion and understanding in unlikely settings.