Sex Change Hospital

Director: Chris McKim
Release Year: 2007

"Sex Change Hospital" is a thought-provoking documentary-style reality television series that takes an in-depth look at the lives of transgender individuals undergoing gender confirmation surgery. Originally aired in 2007, the six-part series captivated audiences with its raw and intimate portrayal of the medical and emotional journey faced by twelve transgender people as they take the ultimate step in their transition from one gender to another.

Girl Inside

Director: Maya Gallus
Release Year: 2007

"Girl Inside" (2007), directed by Maya Gallus, offers a deeply personal and moving exploration of gender identity, family dynamics, and the complex emotional and physical journey of gender transition. The documentary follows Madison (formerly Matthew), a twenty-six-year-old trans woman, as she navigates the three pivotal years of her transition from male to female. But rather than merely chronicling the medical and physical changes, "Girl Inside" delves into the emotional, intellectual, and spiritual aspects of Madison's transformation. It’s a heartwarming story not just about the transition itself, but about the love and support that surround Madison during this critical time, especially from her extraordinary 80-year-old grandmother, Vivien.

Trans

Director: Cristóbal Cohen
Release Year: 2007

Cristóbal Cohen’s 2007 documentary "Trans" offers a poignant and powerful look at the lived experiences of transgender individuals, particularly within the marginalized communities of Santiago, Chile. The film centers on Paula, a transgender woman who confronts the harsh realities of daily life in a society that, while tolerant, remains far from fully accepting of its LGBTQ+ minorities. Through Paula’s journey, the documentary sheds light on the unique struggles of transgender people, navigating issues of identity, family relationships, and societal integration in a nation where discrimination still runs deep.

Binding Words

Directors: Cynthia Arra & Mélissa Arra
Release Year: 2007
Original title: L'ordre des mots

"L'ordre des mots," directed by Cynthia and Mélissa Arra, is a poignant exploration of the struggles and triumphs faced by the transgender and intersex community in France. This film distinguishes itself by providing a platform for voices often marginalized in mainstream discourse, allowing individuals to articulate their journeys in the quest for identity. Through a blend of personal narratives and broader societal critiques, the film invites audiences to reconsider established norms surrounding gender identity, sexuality, and the body. At its core, "L'ordre des mots" delves into the complexities of gender identity, presenting a multifaceted view that goes beyond the typical narratives associated with Trans issues. The Arra sisters employ a unique approach by featuring contemporary activists and precursors of the Trans and Intersex movement, showcasing a rich tapestry of experiences that reflect the diverse realities of these communities.

Alexis Arquette: She's My Brother

Director: Matthew Barbato
Release Year: 2007

Alexis Arquette: She's My Brother (2007), directed by Matthew Barbato, is a deeply introspective documentary that captures the volatile, multifaceted journey of Alexis Arquette, the transgender actor and activist, in the months leading up to her sex reassignment surgery. The film is a portrait of an individual in flux - someone grappling with identity, gender, and personal transformation. But it is also a work of artifice, one that, at times, resists offering any clear answers or resolutions to the questions it raises. In essence, it is as much about the process of searching for identity as it is about the identity itself.