Emmy Award winner and former head writer for Saturday Night Live, Harper Steele, is set to produce a groundbreaking documentary examining the suicide crisis among trans masculine young people. This new film, titled What Will I Become?, aims to shed light on the challenges and resilience within this community.
The documentary, produced by Steele along with first-time directors Lexie Bean and Logan Rozos, will have its world premiere at the prestigious Berlinale film festival next month. What Will I Become? not only highlights the struggles faced by trans masculine youth but also celebrates their lives and achievements.
An Urgent Story to Be Told
Through the personal narratives of Bean and Rozos, the film delves into the tragic stories of Blake Brockington and Kyler Prescott, two young trans men whose lives were cut short by suicide. Brockington, who made history as the first openly transgender boy to be named homecoming king in North Carolina, passed away in 2015. His death followed a period of depression and suicidal thoughts. Similarly, Prescott, a talented 14-year-old, died by suicide after a stay in a psychiatric unit where he was reportedly misgendered by staff.
The film's synopsis emphasizes the vulnerability of the transmasculine community, exploring why they are particularly susceptible to "living briefly and dying quietly." It also tackles the broader social issues and systemic failures that contribute to these tragedies while offering resources for affirming and supporting trans youths and the wider LGBTQIA2S+ community.
Celebrating Life and Community
Producer Drew Dickler, who is part of the predominantly LGBTQ+ crew behind the film, emphasizes that the documentary does not sensationalize the loss of these young lives. Instead, it focuses on community, resilience, and the joy that persists despite adversity. "This film does not flatten trans lives into tragedy," Dickler explains. "It insists on community and accountability at a moment when trans youth are being erased and abandoned by systems meant to protect them."
As trans individuals face increasing hostility, Steele believes the documentary serves as an essential educational tool. It showcases both the harm caused by transphobia and the unassailable joy within the trans community. "As someone who’s been steeped in trans culture for more than a decade, this film was an education," Steele says. "It’s vital to show the joy they can never take away."
A Resource for Hope
Bean and Rozos have voiced their hope that What Will I Become? will resonate with people who feel like a burden, those who struggle to find role models, and anyone who may believe the world is better off without them. The film is crafted as a community resource, aiming to engage not just those within the LGBTQ+ community, but also broader audiences who may not initially recognize its relevance to them.
The documentary underscores the importance of suicide prevention practices and resources that affirm trans identities, offering support and understanding to those who need it most. It stands as a testament to the strength and vibrancy of trans lives and a call to action for allies to do better in protecting and uplifting these communities.
In moments of crisis, there are lifelines available. The Trans Lifeline, staffed by and for trans people, can be reached at 1-877-565-8860. LGBTQ youth can also contact The Trevor Project at 1-866-488-7386, and anyone in need can call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.
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