10 Transgender Biopic Films That Inspire and Educate

Description: Based on the true story of Barry Winchell, a U.S. Army soldier, and his relationship with Calpernia Addams, a transgender performer, this film addresses issues of love, acceptance, and military culture.

Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life murder of Barry Winchell, which led to changes in military policy regarding hate crimes.

Description: Bree, a pre-operative trans woman, embarks on a road trip with her estranged son, leading to unexpected bonding and self-discovery. This film is both comedic and touching.

Fact: Felicity Huffman was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role as Bree. The film also received the "Grand Jury Prize" at the Sundance Film Festival.

Description: While primarily about AIDS activism, the film features a transgender character, Rayon, whose journey adds depth to the narrative of personal transformation and resilience.

Fact: Jared Leto won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his portrayal of Rayon. The film was also nominated for Best Picture.

Description: This film tells the story of Lili Elbe, one of the first known recipients of gender reassignment surgery. It's a poignant exploration of love, identity, and the pioneering spirit of the early 20th century.

Fact: Eddie Redmayne was nominated for an Academy Award for his portrayal of Lili Elbe. The film was also nominated for Best Production Design.

Description: This film explores the dynamics of a family as they support their transgender son, Ray, through his transition, highlighting generational differences in understanding and acceptance.

Fact: The film was originally titled "About Ray" but was changed to avoid confusion with another film. It features a strong ensemble cast including Naomi Watts and Susan Sarandon.

Description: This Chilean film follows Marina, a transgender woman, as she deals with the sudden death of her partner and the subsequent prejudice she faces. It's a powerful narrative on resilience and identity.

Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. It was also the first Chilean film to win this award.

Description: This documentary provides a raw and unfiltered look at the life and tragic death of Brandon Teena, offering insights into his life before the dramatized version in "Boys Don't Cry."

Fact: The documentary was directed by Susan Muska and Gréta Olafsdóttir, who later received the GLAAD Media Award for Outstanding Documentary.

Description: While not strictly a biopic, this film includes a transgender character whose revelation is central to the plot, exploring themes of identity, love, and deception.

Fact: The film was nominated for six Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and won for Best Original Screenplay.

Description: Based on the real-life story of Brandon Teena, this film explores the life of a transgender man in rural Nebraska, highlighting the societal challenges and the tragic consequences of transphobia.

Fact: Hilary Swank won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role as Brandon Teena. The film was also nominated for Best Writing, Screenplay Based on Material Previously Produced or Published.

Description: This documentary captures the life of Christine Jorgensen, one of the first people to undergo sex reassignment surgery, offering a historical perspective on transgender issues.

Fact: Christine Jorgensen became an international sensation in the 1950s, and her story helped to bring transgender issues into the public eye.