22 Films Where Trans Actors Played Trans Roles Authentically

Movies are changing, with filmmakers now focusing on telling authentic stories. We’re seeing less of cisgender actors playing transgender roles, and more opportunities for transgender actors to portray their own experiences. This brings a deeper, more genuine emotional connection to the characters and stories. Trans representation is also becoming more diverse, moving beyond sad stories to include comedies, thrillers, and dramas that show the full range of human life. Here’s a look at some films where transgender actors have brought their unique perspectives to the screen, creating truly memorable characters.

‘A Fantastic Woman’ (2017)

The film centers on Marina, who is coping with the unexpected loss of her long-term partner, all while facing prejudice from both his family and the authorities. Actress Daniela Vega gives a stunning performance, powerfully portraying Marina’s journey through grief and her determination to persevere. The film received the Academy Award for Best International Feature Film and is considered a landmark achievement for transgender representation in movies worldwide. Importantly, it avoids focusing solely on Marina’s pain, instead highlighting her inherent strength and dignity in the face of adversity.

‘Tangerine’ (2015)

On Christmas Eve, Sin-Dee Rella races across Los Angeles, determined to find the man who hurt her. This fast-paced and vibrant film, remarkably shot entirely on iPhones, vividly portrays the difficult but beautiful lives of people living on the streets. Mya Taylor and Kitana Kiki Rodriguez deliver incredibly genuine and funny performances, avoiding common clichés. The movie emphasizes the strong bonds and unwavering support found within the families people create for themselves, even when facing incredibly tough circumstances.

‘Lingua Franca’ (2019)

Olivia, a transgender Filipina woman living in Brooklyn, works as a caregiver and is fighting to get a green card. The film, written and directed by Isabel Sandoval – who also plays Olivia – draws on Sandoval’s own experiences to tell a deeply personal and politically relevant story. It explores the worries that come with being undocumented alongside the challenges of finding love, all set against a difficult political backdrop. The film is a subtle and immersive look at Olivia’s life, and it stays with you long after it ends.

‘Monica’ (2022)

I just finished watching this incredibly moving film, and honestly, it’s stayed with me. It’s about a woman going back home after a long time away to be with her mother, who is very ill and doesn’t even recognize her anymore. Trace Lysette gives a beautiful, understated performance – it’s not a movie with big dramatic outbursts, but one that really focuses on small moments and what isn’t said. It really gets at that deep human need to be accepted by your mother, and how heartbreaking it can be when families grow apart. Visually, it’s gorgeous, and it feels like a thoughtful exploration of forgiveness and how time changes everything.

‘Boy Meets Girl’ (2014)

Ricky, a vlogger in Kentucky, hopes to one day make it in New York City. Her life gets a shake-up when she becomes friends with a debutante, and the two of them start to rethink what they believe about love and who they are. The film, charmingly directed by Michelle Hendley, is a romantic comedy that portrays being transgender as just one part of a full and complicated life. It looks at how attraction can be fluid, and avoids the sad storylines often seen in this type of movie.

‘Gun Hill Road’ (2011)

After being released from prison, Enrique comes home to the Bronx and discovers his child, Vanessa, is transitioning and living a life he struggles to accept. Harmony Santana’s performance as Vanessa earned her the historic nomination as the first openly trans actress for an Independent Spirit Award. The film powerfully portrays the clash between a father’s old-fashioned ideas about masculinity and his child’s desire to live authentically, offering a raw and emotional look at a family desperately trying to reconnect before it’s too late.

‘Port Authority’ (2019)

Paul, a newcomer to New York City from the Midwest, finds himself falling for Wye, who opens his eyes to the exciting world of ballroom culture. Actress Leyna Bloom is captivating as Wye, bringing both elegance and strength to her performance. The film explores how different marginalized groups intersect, and how prejudice can exist even within communities that understand being outsiders. It’s a realistic look at the challenges of finding acceptance in a city that’s both enchanting and harsh.

‘Joyland’ (2022)

Haider finds work at an erotic dance theatre in Lahore and becomes captivated by Biba, a talented and determined transgender performer. Alina Khan delivers a powerful performance as Biba, boldly confronting traditional societal expectations. The film contrasts the pressures of a conservative Pakistani family with a hidden world of passion and liberation. It’s a visually stunning and sensitive exploration of gender and sexuality, breaking new ground in Pakistani cinema.

‘Mutt’ (2023)

Feña’s day in New York City is thrown into turmoil when she unexpectedly reconnects with her ex-boyfriend, his complicated family, and her sister. Lio Mehiel gives a remarkable performance, authentically portraying the experiences and challenges of being a transgender man. The film beautifully focuses on the often-uncomfortable but heartfelt moments of rebuilding connections, rather than solely on the difficulties of transitioning. It offers a fresh and realistic look at modern queer life and evolving relationships in the city.

‘Anything’s Possible’ (2022)

Kelsa, a self-assured high school student, sparks a connection with her more reserved classmate, Khal. Eva Reign stars in this modern story about growing up, focusing on the happiness and excitement of first love rather than hardship. While the film honestly portrays the difficulties of dating as a trans person in today’s social media world, it doesn’t let those challenges overshadow the central romance. It’s a bright, hopeful, and genuinely heartwarming film about falling in love for the first time.

‘Alice Júnior’ (2020)

Alice, a lively and popular YouTuber, arrives in a small, traditional town and quickly changes things up at the local high school. Actress Anne Celestino Mota plays Alice with incredible energy, portraying a character who always stays true to herself. The movie combines trendy visuals with a touching story about overcoming challenges and the importance of expressing who you are. What makes this Brazilian teen comedy special is that it focuses on Alice’s strength and empowerment, rather than making her a victim because of who she is.

‘Bit’ (2019)

Laurel escapes her hometown for Los Angeles and unexpectedly joins a group of feminist vampires. Starring Nicole Maines, this horror-comedy playfully flips traditional genre expectations with a fresh, queer perspective. The film cleverly uses vampires to explore themes of power and finding your place, while also showcasing a strong and capable transgender woman as the central hero. It’s a stylish and entertaining movie that puts a trans woman in the driver’s seat.

‘The Garden Left Behind’ (2019)

The film follows Tina, a trans woman from Mexico living in New York City, as she navigates the challenges of daily life while fighting for her community. Carlie Guevara delivers a powerful and emotional performance, beautifully portraying the difficulties faced by people who experience multiple forms of discrimination. The movie doesn’t hide the dangers of violence, but also shows the strength and comfort of family. Ultimately, it’s a plea for greater protection and rights for trans women of color.

‘Gossamer Folds’ (2020)

Ten-year-old Tate unexpectedly becomes friends with his neighbor, Gossamer, during a difficult summer for his family. Actress Alexandra Grey beautifully portrays Gossamer, bringing a kindness and complexity that challenges the biases of those around them. The film shows how a real connection can overcome prejudice, even between people from different generations and backgrounds. It’s a heartwarming story about finding hope and belonging through an unlikely friendship.

‘Lola and the Sea’ (2019)

Lola, a rebellious teenage skater, takes a road trip with her distant father to honor her mother’s last request. Actress Mya Bollaers powerfully portrays a young woman desperate for her father’s acceptance. The film, a Belgian production, uses the journey as a way to explore their complex relationship, where unspoken feelings are just as important as conversations. It’s a story about a father learning to truly understand and love his daughter for who she is.

‘Cowboys’ (2020)

Troy takes his transgender son, Joe, on a journey into the Montana wilderness, hoping to shield him from a mother who doesn’t understand him. Sasha Knight delivers a powerful and subtle performance as Joe, grounding the film’s intense emotions. The movie examines how far a parent will go to ensure their child’s well-being and right to be themselves, using the iconic western setting to tell a contemporary story about acceptance and finding freedom.

‘Assassination Nation’ (2018)

When a huge data breach turns their town against them, Bex and her friends find themselves fighting for survival. Hari Nef delivers a compelling performance as Bex, portraying a cool exterior that hides a deep loyalty to her friends. The movie is a visually striking and satirical take on American values and internet trends, quickly descending into intense violence. Importantly, it features trans women as essential parts of the group, fighting back with the same strength and determination as everyone else.

‘Fanfic’ (2023)

Tosia, a teenager exploring her gender identity, finds an outlet through passionate fanfiction writing. Actress Alin Szewczyk beautifully portrays the character’s inner turmoil and the challenges of figuring out who she is. This Polish film is notable for its sensitive and authentic depiction of non-binary and trans masculine experiences, which are rarely seen in Eastern European movies. The film handles Tosia’s journey of self-discovery with care and a genuine understanding of what it’s like to be young.

‘Close to You’ (2023)

I just finished watching this incredible film, and it really stayed with me. It’s about a guy named Sam who goes back to his hometown for a family get-together after being away for a long time. What makes it so special is how raw and authentic it feels – a lot of the dialogue was apparently improvised! Elliot Page not only stars, but also produced it, and you can really feel how personal this project is to them. It perfectly captures that awkward but loving dynamic you get with family – the way they try to connect but sometimes unintentionally bring up old hurts. While it’s clearly drawn from Elliot’s own experiences, the story of coming home and reconnecting feels incredibly universal.

‘Paloma’ (2022)

Paloma, a farm worker in Brazil, longs for a traditional wedding, even though her local priest won’t allow it. Actress Kika Sena brilliantly portrays Paloma, showing both her gentle hope and unwavering resolve. The film beautifully depicts life in the countryside, but also reveals how limiting it can be for people who don’t fit traditional norms. Ultimately, it’s a story about the universal desire for love and acceptance, no matter who you are.

‘Something Must Break’ (2014)

Sebastian is a young person figuring out their gender identity and develops feelings for a man, Andreas, who identifies as straight. The film features a groundbreaking performance by Saga Becker, the first trans actress to win a Guldbagge Award, and doesn’t rely on simple labels. Instead, it honestly portrays the complexities of love and discovering who you are. It’s a vibrant, unconventional romance that champions individuality and breaking free from expectations.

‘Wild Side’ (2004)

I just finished watching a truly moving French drama, and I’m still thinking about it. The film centers on Stéphanie, a trans sex worker, who goes back home to care for her mother, bringing along her two partners. It’s not a conventional family, but the film beautifully portrays the strength they find in each other, especially as outsiders. What really struck me was how poetically the film jumps between past and present, and ultimately, it’s a really poignant look at building a life for yourself when society doesn’t accept you. Stéphanie Michelini delivers a powerful performance as the lead, and the whole thing just feels incredibly human.

Leave a comment telling us which performance from this list resonated with you the most.

2025-12-01 21:47