'I Am A Girl' is a 15min hybrid doc that embraces the life of transgender teen Joppe. It's different from other docs around the same subject in that rather than twisting it into an angsty/crisis story, film-maker Susan Koenen crafts it into a well-made film about beauty and teenage crushes.
The film celebrates Joppe's identity and her strength and confidence in her transition. She is absolutely stunning on camera and I envy her perfect skin like no other! I cannot help but find her energy infectious and her friendships touching. For a film I clicked through to on a whim, I was so glad to learn about Joppe, rather than about transgender issues. Of course, issues aren't shyed away from, but it is secondary to her story and instead, it is her confidence and energy that shines through. I really enjoyed the hybrid nature of this doc as Joppe hides in the bushes to spy on her crush and as she rides her bike in the sunlight. These scenes are beautifully shot with using well-muted natural sunlight and really emphasises the joy she feels at being allowed to be who she wished to be. Oh, and I have to say, Joppe you're not the only girl who wishes she had the figure of her friends!
If more docs were made like this, with a touch of personality and a focus on the 'people' over the issues, we may just be able to win around that corner of society that refuses to accept girls like Joppe for the beautiful, passionate people that they are.
The film is about embracing truths, loving without boundaries and being free to live the lives we choose. Leave a comment!
No comments:
Post a Comment