18 Films Where Trans Characters Exist Without the Movie Being “About” Being Trans

Over time, movies have become much better at including a wider range of stories and perspectives. Today, we’re seeing more films with transgender characters whose lives aren’t just about being transgender. These characters appear in all kinds of movies – from scary thrillers to funny comedies – and their stories aren’t always focused on their identity or how they transitioned. Instead, the movies focus on the overall plot and developing the characters, just like with any other story.

‘Dog Day Afternoon’ (1975)

This crime drama, starring Al Pacino, is based on the true story of a bank robbery that quickly became a major media event. The robbery was motivated by a desperate need to raise money for the protagonist’s partner, Leon Shermer, to receive gender-affirming care. Leon, a complex character already living as a woman, is involved in negotiating with the police during the hostage situation. Though her identity initially sparked the crime, the film mainly centers on the tense standoff and how the robbery plan falls apart.

‘The World According to Garp’ (1982)

This film, based on John Irving’s novel, introduces Roberta Muldoon, a transgender woman and former football player for the Philadelphia Eagles. Roberta is a close friend who looks after the main character, Garp, and provides a sense of stability in a very turbulent story. Actor John Lithgow was nominated for an Oscar for his moving and realistic performance as Roberta. The film focuses on her strong friendships and unwavering loyalty, not on her history as a transgender woman.

‘The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert’ (1994)

Bernadette Bassenger, a transgender woman portrayed by Terence Stamp, embarks on an Australian Outback road trip with two drag queens. Unlike her companions, Bernadette has already completed her transition and is the most composed and refined of the group. The film follows their adventures as they travel in a vibrant lavender bus, performing shows and forging a close friendship along the way.

‘Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil’ (1997)

In this Clint Eastwood-directed mystery, The Lady Chablis portrays herself, bringing charm and humor as a local Savannah personality. She guides the main character through the city’s unique social circles, effortlessly commanding attention in every scene she’s in – and her story isn’t defined by sadness or hardship. Chablis also plays a crucial role in the murder trial at the heart of the film, serving as a key witness.

‘Tokyo Godfathers’ (2003)

Satoshi Kon’s animated film centers around three people experiencing homelessness who find a baby abandoned on Christmas Eve. One of them, Hana, is a transgender woman who deeply desires to be a mother and takes the lead in caring for the child. The group then sets off on a wild journey across Tokyo to locate the baby’s parents. While Hana’s personal story shapes her strong maternal feelings, the film is ultimately a heartwarming tale about finding family and a second chance.

‘Seed of Chucky’ (2004)

As a horror fan, I was really intrigued by the newest installment in the killer doll series. They introduced Glen, Chucky and Tiffany’s kid, and it’s a surprisingly complex character! Glen’s a sweet soul who really doesn’t want to be a killer, but they also have this alter ego, Glenda, who definitely enjoys the mayhem. It’s fascinating because Glen ultimately figures out they’re genderfluid, embracing both sides of their personality. Honestly, the movie leans more into campy humor and messy family dynamics than a deep dive into gender identity – it’s a fun, over-the-top horror-comedy, not a serious statement.

‘Colette’ (2018)

Keira Knightley plays the celebrated French author Colette in this film, which also tells the story of Mathilde de Morny, nicknamed Missy. Missy was a noblewoman who challenged gender norms by living as a man in 1800s Paris and was a romantic partner to Colette. The film portrays Missy as a self-assured and encouraging figure who helped Colette pursue her own ambitions, and her identity is depicted with sensitivity and historical detail.

‘Assassination Nation’ (2018)

This suspenseful and darkly humorous story follows four high school friends whose town is thrown into turmoil after a major data breach reveals everyone’s secrets. One of these friends, Bex, is a transgender girl dealing with the challenges of teenage romance and danger. When the town spirals into chaos and vigilantism, Bex and her friends must fight to survive. While she has a budding romance, the story mainly focuses on Bex’s struggle to stay alive in a increasingly violent situation.

‘Bit’ (2019)

Laurel, a transgender teen, starts a new life in Los Angeles and unexpectedly joins a group of feminist vampires. After becoming a vampire herself, she has to adjust to being immortal and follow the rules of her new vampire community. The movie looks at questions of power and right and wrong, using the classic vampire story as a backdrop. While the film recognizes Laurel’s identity as a transgender person, her central conflict revolves around balancing her human side with her life as a vampire.

‘Hellraiser’ (2022)

The latest installment of the classic horror series stars Jamie Clayton as Pinhead, the iconic and terrifying figure known as the Priest. This version of Pinhead is a demonic being bound to the puzzle box, and thrives on inflicting pain. Clayton delivers a haunting and frightening performance as the main villain. The character exists outside of traditional gender roles, making Clayton a natural choice for the part and fitting perfectly within the horror world.

‘Wendell & Wild’ (2022)

Henry Selick and Jordan Peele’s new stop-motion film introduces Raúl, a transgender boy attending a Catholic boarding school. He becomes friends with the main character, Kat, and supports her as she battles both her inner struggles and the actual demons threatening their town. The film thoughtfully incorporates Raúl’s identity into the story without making it the main focus of the fantasy adventure.

‘A Man Called Otto’ (2022)

I just love Malcolm in the movie! He’s this really great young man, a transgender guy who delivers papers around the neighborhood, and he becomes friends with Otto, the grumpy neighbor. It’s so heartwarming to see how they connect – Otto even helps him fix his bike and starts giving him driving lessons! Malcolm is just so well-liked by everyone, and he really becomes part of the community. To me, he represents the kindness and strength of the younger generation, and he’s a big part of what finally starts to soften Otto’s heart.

‘Talk to Me’ (2022)

In this Australian horror film, Hayley, played by Zoe Terakes, is the confident friend who throws the parties where a group attempts to contact spirits using a preserved hand. Hayley’s gender isn’t important to the story, which centers on the frightening results of their rituals. She’s a key figure in the group and pushes the horror aspects of the plot forward.

‘Evil Dead Rise’ (2023)

Danny is a DJ and one of three siblings struggling to make ends meet in a run-down apartment building in Los Angeles when a terrifying ancient book unleashes demons. He’s a protective brother who fights to keep his family safe from these evil forces, known as Deadites. Actor Morgan Davies plays Danny, and while Danny is a transgender man, the movie centers on his desperate fight for survival amidst a lot of intense and gruesome horror. He’s a key character in the film’s non-stop action.

‘Barbie’ (2023)

Doctor Barbie lives in Barbieland, a perfect society run by women where they hold all the important jobs. She’s a happy and accomplished doctor who’s involved in both leading the community and enjoying life there. Her character highlights the film’s idea that Barbie can achieve anything she sets her mind to. She simply exists and thrives in this bright, plastic world without needing to justify her place or purpose.

‘Nimona’ (2023)

Nimona tells the story of a shapeshifter who unexpectedly becomes the sidekick to a knight who’s fallen from grace. They navigate a futuristic medieval world where anyone different is feared, and Nimona’s own fluidity as a shapeshifter becomes a powerful symbol for the transgender experience. It’s a fast-paced fantasy adventure centered on uncovering corruption and the search for acceptance.

‘Joy Ride’ (2023)

Deadeye is a unique and funny K-pop fan who tags along with their cousin and friends on a wild trip to China. They’re non-binary and bring a lot of humor and emotional depth to the group’s crazy adventures. Throughout the trip, Deadeye connects with people they’ve met online and discovers a sense of belonging. The movie is a lighthearted and often outrageous comedy, and Deadeye’s identity is just one part of what makes them such a memorable character.

‘Monkey Man’ (2024)

As a huge cinema fan, I was completely captivated by this action thriller! It centers around a hidden temple community – a group of Hijra, who are a recognized third gender in India. They’re incredibly compelling characters. I loved how the story unfolds with them rescuing the main character after a brutal fight and then training him for the ultimate showdown against some seriously corrupt people. The leader, Alpha, is particularly awesome – a true warrior who fights with the hero. They’re not just side characters either; they’re a powerful, spiritual group and really drive the whole revolution forward. It’s a really unique and compelling take on the genre.

2025-12-07 01:46