Quem Pode Jogar?

Director: Marcos Ribeiro
Release Year: 2020

"Quem Pode Jogar?" (2020) is a documentary by Marcos Ribeiro that delves into the complex world of transgender athletes, shedding light on the barriers they face in the pursuit of their passions and recognition in sports. This insightful documentary explores the challenges faced by these athletes, not as competitors in the traditional sense, but as individuals confronting systemic prejudice, societal expectations, and the fundamental struggle to be accepted in a world that often insists on binary definitions of gender.

 

The documentary, shown during the 2020 online edition of the Mix Brasil Festival, pushes the audience to recognize that these transgender individuals must navigate the rigid, binary structures of society, which insist on defining people as either men or women. This binary framework, deeply rooted in centuries of tradition and influenced by religious and conservative ideologies, forces individuals to conform to a set of rules that often marginalize those who do not fit neatly into these categories. "Quem Pode Jogar?" takes us into the lives of these athletes, who, in their pursuit of sporting success, must overcome not only the physical and mental demands of their disciplines but also the deeply ingrained prejudices of a society that is hesitant to embrace difference. 

 

This documentary reveals the harsh realities that transgender athletes face - not only as competitors but also as individuals engaged in a struggle for societal acceptance. The athletes profiled in the film do not face prejudice as part of a typical competitive rivalry but as part of a much larger battle for equality and recognition. Through a series of interviews conducted by Helena Lara Resende, the documentary explores the lived experiences of transgender athletes as they articulate the prejudices they encounter and the motivations that drive them to continue competing. Resende, who also co-wrote the film, positions herself as an observer, asking questions that allow the athletes to speak for themselves. By doing so, she facilitates a nuanced exploration of their journeys - an emotional and intellectual investigation of what it means to be a transgender person navigating the world of competitive sports. Through the stories of these athletes, we are invited to understand the intersection of identity, physicality, and societal norms.

 

The documentary touches on the challenges of gender dysphoria, hormone treatments, and the constant balancing act between personal identity and societal expectations. It highlights how the transgender athletes' physical transformations are not just about body image but are also deeply connected to their struggles for acceptance in a world that often does not accommodate them. While some of the film's scenes may feel theatrical, such as the portrayal of doctor visits and training sessions, the raw intensity of these moments emphasizes the seriousness of the athletes' journeys. These scenes are not sanitized; instead, they capture the physical and emotional toll of their efforts. The documentary also discusses issues such as testosterone use, the "erasure" of transgender identities, and the importance of self-affirmation in a world that may seek to deny them. "Quem Pode Jogar?" also brings attention to the alliances that these athletes form. These connections are crucial, not only for mutual support but also for the solidarity needed to confront the systemic barriers they face. One such figure in the film is Eliane Cerâmica, a Brazilian athlete who embodies a sense of pride and activism. For her, being an athlete is not just about personal achievement; it is about representing a larger cause - a stance that resonates deeply in a world where transphobia and violence are all too common.

 

The documentary also takes a critical look at societal expectations regarding gender performance. Using the theories of philosopher Judith Butler, the film explores how transgender athletes navigate the expectations placed on them to "perform" their gender identity in ways that meet conventional standards. These athletes’ journeys of self-discovery and self-expression challenge the social norms that continue to dictate how gender should be represented in public spaces, including sports. Despite the hurdles they face, the athletes in Quem Pode Jogar? embody resilience and perseverance. Their dedication to their sports - whether in MMA, jiu-jitsu, skating, or bodybuilding - demonstrates the power of the human spirit. Each athlete’s story is a testament to the potential for sport to transcend societal boundaries, offering not only a means of personal expression but also an opportunity for transformation and growth. The film's soundtrack, ethereal and almost fable-like, amplifies the emotional depth of the athletes' journeys. It evokes a sense of both struggle and transcendence, reminiscent of the tone in Alain Berliner's My Life in Pink (1997), a film about gender identity and societal rejection. Through this soundscape, Quem Pode Jogar? enhances the emotional impact of the athletes' stories, underscoring the significance of their struggle in both personal and societal contexts. 

 

Ultimately, the question posed by the title - Who Can Play? - demands a passionate response. It suggests that the answer lies not in any rigid criteria or rules but in the cessation of judgment and the end of societal obsession with how others choose to live their lives. Why does difference provoke such discomfort? Why does society insist on defining the "correct" way to be? These questions are central to the film’s critique of societal norms and the systems that perpetuate discrimination. Quem Pode Jogar? functions not only as a documentary but as a profound exploration of inclusion, resilience, and the transformative power of sport. Through a combination of personal stories, insightful interviews, and critical reflection on the challenges faced by transgender athletes, the film makes a powerful argument for the need for greater acceptance and inclusion in the world of sports. It highlights how these athletes are not just fighting for a place in the game but for the right to exist as they truly are. The film underscores that sport, in its purest form, should be about personal growth, expression, and the celebration of human potential - without regard to gender or societal norms.

 

In conclusion, Quem Pode Jogar? serves as both a reflection of the struggles that transgender athletes face and a call for change in the way society views gender and identity. Through its compelling storytelling and cinematic techniques, the documentary challenges viewers to confront their own biases and rethink the very notion of who has the right to play. By emphasizing the importance of empathy, understanding, and the rejection of outdated societal norms, the film advocates for a more inclusive future, where everyone, regardless of their gender identity, can participate in sports and other aspects of life with freedom and dignity.

 

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