Becoming a Woman

Director: Tanaka Yukio
Release Year: 2017
Original title: 『女になる』

 

"Becoming a Woman" (2017), directed by Tanaka Yukio, is an intimate documentary that chronicles the life of a university student named Miyu, who struggles with gender identity disorder and undergoes gender reassignment surgery. The film focuses on Miyu's journey toward living as a woman, documenting her emotional and physical transformation as she navigates family dynamics, relationships, and personal challenges. Miyu's story begins with her childhood dream of becoming a woman, which she clung to throughout her life. In high school, she came out to her family, and later, as a university student, began to express her gender identity through cross-dressing. However, it wasn’t until the spring break of her third year that she took the bold step of undergoing gender reassignment surgery, fulfilling a long-awaited aspiration to transition into the woman she had always envisioned herself to be.

 

The documentary follows Miyu's six-month journey during this crucial time in her life, offering a raw and unfiltered look at her experiences. The film showcases not only Miyu’s transformation but also the reactions of those around her, including her family, friends, university professors, doctors, and even her boyfriend. Each of these individuals plays a pivotal role in supporting Miyu as she strives to live authentically. In 2018, a special screening of the film was held at the Don Center in Osaka, Japan, where the documentary received a warm reception from the audience. The post-screening talk show featured Miyu alongside her co-stars, including her close friends Mimura, Azuma, and manager Toyama Ayumu. The group, affectionately referred to as the "three sisters," shared their personal stories and experiences. Ayumu, who is an FTM (female-to-male) individual, spoke about the challenges of living as a transgender person and how the film was not only an important personal journey but also a means to inspire and offer hope to others in the LGBTQ community.

 

The film’s title, "Becoming a Woman," reflects the central theme of the documentary: the journey of a transgender woman reclaiming her identity. Miyu herself shared that she felt compelled to document her experiences to have a record of her transformation. She explained that she wanted to look back on this time in her life in the future, at 30 or 40 years old, and be able to smile at how far she had come. Her decision to share her story with Tanaka Yukio, the director, was driven by her desire to make her past struggles a positive and empowering part of her identity. Throughout the talk show, the three main characters discussed various aspects of their lives and the transition process. Mimura, who was also born male but now lives as a woman, expressed how she cherished moments like going shopping with her sister and sharing clothes - experiences that were previously impossible for her. Azuma, another member of the "three sisters," echoed this sentiment, sharing how she enjoyed bonding with her mother over cosmetics and other aspects of femininity.

 

The film also provided a platform for lively discussions on gender identity and personal experiences. During the Q&A session, several audience members, many of whom were also part of the transgender community, expressed their admiration for Miyu’s courage and positive attitude. They shared how the documentary had inspired them to embrace their own identities and overcome obstacles. Miyu responded to personal and direct questions, including inquiries about her romantic relationships and her experience with the surgery, bringing both humor and sincerity to the discussion. The event highlighted the importance of acceptance and the power of community in the lives of transgender individuals. Ayumu, in particular, emphasized how crucial it is for families of LGBTQ individuals to watch the film. His own family had supported him through his journey, and he hoped that the documentary would help foster understanding and empathy for the transgender community, especially among families who might be struggling to accept their loved ones. 

 

The documentary was praised not only for its portrayal of Miyu’s gender transition but also for its broader message. As noted by Naohiro Fujiwara, the LGBT life coach and talk show host, "Becoming a Woman" is not just a film for the LGBTQ community; it is a story that resonates with anyone who seeks to live authentically. Miyu's journey is one of reclaiming her identity and finding the courage to live her truth. The film encourages viewers to embrace themselves fully, regardless of societal expectations or external pressures. As the screening and talk show came to an end, Miyu reflected on the importance of human connection. 

 

Despite the challenges she faced in her personal life, she emphasized the need to build supportive relationships and surround oneself with people who truly understand and accept you. Miyu’s message was clear: by being true to oneself, anyone can find their place in the world and contribute to a more compassionate and inclusive society. The talk show ended on a note of optimism and solidarity, with the audience applauding her courage and the powerful impact of the film. "Becoming a Woman" serves as an important reminder of the significance of gender identity, self-acceptance, and the importance of community in the lives of those who are often marginalized. The documentary not only showcases the transformative power of gender reassignment surgery but also sheds light on the emotional and social complexities that accompany such a profound transition. It is a moving testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the journey toward becoming one's true self.

 

via: youtube

 jackandbetty.net and tsunagary.jp

Image credits: YouTube