The People's Joker, a parody film directed by Vera Drew, has overcome legal setbacks to hit theaters in New York, featuring a trans woman as the Harlequin and offering a comedic take on various Batman villains. Drew, drawing from her personal experiences as a trans woman, sees the film as a way to explore her own identity and address the villainization of the queer community. Despite criticism, she believes it's important to tell the story of a queer villain, reflecting the challenges faced by herself and her community. The film is now in theaters with more screenings scheduled across the US.
Dev Patel, star and director of the action thriller Monkey Man, emphasized the importance of including the third gender community in the film, describing it as an "anthem for the underdogs, the voiceless and the marginalized." Patel expressed his desire to represent the Hijra community in India as a form of solidarity and highlighted the need to fight for each other. The film, which opened in the US on April 5, features a protagonist who joins a group of trans and gender-non-conforming characters to combat the elite oppressing them.
"The People's Joker" is a satirical, independent film by Vera Drew that explores the conflict between emotional freedom and corporate control, as well as the journey of a trans woman and underground comic artist. The movie, which features a mix of Batman references and trans representation, follows the protagonist's pursuit of comedy in Gotham City and her discovery of her own identity. Through its amateurish performances and diverse animation styles, the film captures the outsider art spirit and offers a fresh take on superhero cinema, making it a compelling watch for those seeking something different in the world of comic book adaptations.
Dev Patel discusses the physical toll of directing and starring in "Monkey Man," revealing a slew of injuries sustained during filming, including a broken hand, toe fractures, and eye infections. The film also features trans and gender-nonconforming characters, with Patel emphasizing the importance of representing marginalized communities. While the cast expresses interest in a sequel, Patel remains focused on the current project, calling it a "dream come true."
Hunter Schafer, known for her role in Euphoria, revealed in a GQ cover story that she has turned down numerous trans roles and wants to move away from being defined by her trans identity, expressing a desire to simply be seen as a girl. She reflected on her intentional shift away from focusing on her trans identity in her art and discussed her grief following the death of fellow Euphoria actor Angus Cloud, describing him as "a fucking angel" and "sunshine."
Elliot Page challenges the idea that LGBTQ films have a small audience, citing that 30% of young people identify as LGBTQ. At the BFI Flare festival, he discussed his latest film "Close to You," his experience with intimacy coordination, and coming out as trans to "The Umbrella Academy" creator. Page expressed gratitude for his career but emphasized the need for more trans actors in the industry.
Elliot Page challenges the idea that LGBTQ films have a limited audience, citing that 30% of young people identify as LGBTQ. At the BFI Flare festival, he discussed his latest film "Close to You," his experience with intimacy coordination, and coming out as trans to "The Umbrella Academy" creator. Page expressed gratitude for his career but emphasized the need for more trans actors in the industry.
The recent release of films like Barbie, Talk to Me, Red, White and Royal Blue, and Kokomo City showcases a significant increase in on-screen trans visibility, indicating that cinema may be at a tipping point for trans acting. These films offer diverse depictions of trans representation, from blockbusters to breakout hits, challenging societal norms and providing hope for public views on trans people. Despite facing bans in some countries, trans actors like Zoe Terakes, Hari Nef, and Aneesh Sheth are making strides in their respective roles, contributing to the normalizing of different gender identities and keeping the fight for LGBTQ+ rights alive.
Jeffrey Carlson, a Broadway actor known for his role as Zoe, the first out trans woman on daytime TV in the soap opera "All My Children," has passed away at the age of 48. Carlson, who also appeared in various theater productions and films, made history with his portrayal of Zoe and contributed to trans representation in the entertainment industry.
Trace Lysette, star of the new film Monica, discusses the importance of trans representation in cinema and the challenges facing trans actors in Hollywood. Monica, which premiered at the Venice film festival last year, tells the story of a trans woman who returns home to reconcile with her dying mother. The film eschews many of the conventions of trans cinema, instead focusing on the humanity and emotion behind the characters. Lysette hopes that the film will help to showcase the experiences of trans women who have lived their lives on their own terms.
Dylan Mulvaney, a trans actress, comic, and content creator, has faced anti-trans attacks after promoting Bud Light beer in a video. Mulvaney rose to fame during her "Days of Girlhood" TikTok series, which chronicled her experience of transitioning. She has amassed nearly 11 million followers on TikTok and has received numerous brand sponsorships, including Nike, KitchenAid, and Svedka vodka. Mulvaney's situation highlights the growing visibility of trans figures in popular culture who are fighting for representation and inclusion at a time of growing anti-trans bias.
Dylan Mulvaney, a trans actress, comic, and content creator, has faced anti-trans attacks after promoting Bud Light beer in a video. Mulvaney rose to fame during her "Days of Girlhood" TikTok series, which chronicled her experience of transitioning. She has amassed nearly 11 million followers on TikTok and has received brand sponsorships from companies like Nike, KitchenAid, and Svedka vodka. Mulvaney's situation highlights the growing visibility of trans figures in popular culture who are fighting for representation and inclusion at a time of growing anti-trans bias.
