In a recent appearance on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, actor Will Ferrell humorously addressed the snubbing of his acclaimed documentary Will & Harper at the 2025 Academy Awards. The feature-length Netflix documentary, which has been widely praised, follows Ferrell and his longtime friend Harper Steele on a road trip across America.
Harper Steele, who worked as a writer for Saturday Night Live, came out as a trans woman during the pandemic. The documentary captures the evolving dynamics of their friendship as they navigate important conversations and revisit places significant to Steele’s life before her transition. The touching portrayal of their journey has earned accolades online, with many celebrating Ferrell as an exemplary ally to the transgender community.
A Tough Oscar Competition
Despite its critical acclaim and strong support from fans, Will & Harper did not secure a nomination for the Best Documentary Feature Film category at the Oscars. This left many fans disappointed, especially after the documentary was included in the longlist released at the end of 2024. The final nominations instead went to Black Box Diaries, No Other Land, Porcelain War, Soundtrack to a Coup d'Etat, and Sugarcane, which will compete for the prestigious award on March 2nd.
Ferrell's Lighthearted Response
While promoting his upcoming comedy You’re Cordially Invited with Reese Witherspoon, Ferrell took a moment on Colbert’s show to address the Oscar snub. In his characteristic comedic style, he jokingly suggested that the members of the Academy’s documentary branch could "suck it." Ferrell insinuated that the documentary branch might not be the most fun group to hang out with, drawing laughter from the audience.
Colbert joined in the light-hearted banter, echoing Ferrell’s sentiments with a playful jab at the Academy. Ferrell, undeterred by the snub, took the opportunity to encourage any Academy members present in the audience to take his jest in stride.
A Journey of Friendship and Acceptance
Will & Harper is not just a documentary about a road trip; it is a vivid exploration of friendship, identity, and acceptance. As Ferrell and Steele travel together, they confront complex issues about gender identity, personal growth, and societal perceptions. The documentary does not shy away from asking tough questions, and the heartwarming consequences of these discussions are a testament to the deep bond between the two friends.
The documentary’s reception highlights the importance of stories that spotlight the transgender experience and the allies who support their journeys. It also underscores the power of personal narratives in fostering understanding and empathy within broader society.
Moving Forward
While the Oscar snub is a setback, it does not diminish the impact Will & Harper has had on audiences. The documentary continues to inspire discussions about friendship and allyship, especially in the context of transgender visibility. Ferrell’s response to the snub, filled with humor and grace, exemplifies his commitment to promoting these themes.
Fans and supporters of the documentary are encouraged to keep engaging with its message, sharing their thoughts and experiences. As the conversation around transgender rights and representation evolves, works like Will & Harper play a crucial role in challenging stereotypes and promoting inclusivity.
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