15 Must-See Transgender Movies to Stream Right Now
These films, documentaries and specials shine a light on an important part of the LGBTQ+ experience.
We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.
Do you remember the first time you saw a transgender character in a movie or on TV? Although transgender people are everywhere, the transgender community has been underrepresented in pop culture — and even if a character is trans, a cisgender actor often plays them. Thankfully, this is starting to change as popular shows like Pose and Euphoria, starring trans actors, have begun to correct that imbalance. But there's still a long way to go.
Movies and documentaries that accurately and sensitively depict the trans, nonbinary and LGBTQ+ experience are essential for anyone undergoing their own transition or self-discovery journey, since seeing the success of other trans people can be life-affirming. It’s equally important for trans people to be cast in the role of trans characters, and to be in creative positions of power writing and directing these films. These representations are significant not just for trans and nonbinary people — transgender movies are also immeasurably valuable to our culture at large, especially for those who don't know any trans, nonbinary or gender non-conforming people.
Authentic and affirming representations of LGBTQ+ people — those that depict joy, not heartbreak — help to demystify trans people. "We’re inspired by the trans people we see on screen," Laverne Cox told Deadline while promoting her film Disclosure. "We’re very much interested in bettering the lives of trans people in real life."
These representations are more essential now than ever, as transgender people continue to face targeted structural harassment and discrimination from lawmakers in communities across the country. But if you're looking for a great film to enjoy, or to share with someone in your life who needs to see themselves on screen, these movies are a good place to start.
Hannah Gadsby's Gender Agenda (2024)
You might recognize Hannah Gadsby from their hit Netflix comedy show Nanette. In this stand-up comedy showcase, Gadsby brings together transgender genderqueer comics from around the world for a hilarious and poignant show.
Hedwig and the Angry Inch (2001)
Who doesn’t love a campy musical? This cult classic follows a young trans diva from communist East Berlin to the United States as she tries to figure out who she really is.
The Death and Life of Marsha P. Johnson (2017)
This documentary film looks at the systemic culture of violence facing transgender women, especially transgender women of color. It dives deep into what is known about the life and experiences of Marsha P Johnson, an outspoken leader for the LGBTQ+ rights movement in the 1960s and 1970’s, and a veteran of the Stonewall Riots. Johnson died in 1992 and her murder has never been solved.
RELATED: Meet the Heroes of the Stonewall Riots, a Turning Point in the Gay Rights Movement
Soldier's Girl (2003)
This film is based on the true story of Pvt. Barry Winchell and Calpernia Addams. An army recruit is assigned to a new base, and while out with a friend at a local bar, he meets a transgender woman performing as a drag queen. The two become close, sparking a wave of rumors on base. The film explores the problematic nature of the military’s “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy of the time, as well as homophobia and transphobia. Warning: This is a violent and graphic film.
By Hook or By Crook (2001)
By and for the queer community, this film shows gender-nonconforming characters (played by gender-nonconforming actors) just living their lives — not trying to explain or educate. Written and co-directed by Silas Howard, a director for the Amazon Studios show Transparent, this film won awards at Sundance in the early 2000s.
Kinky Boots (2006)
Transgender is an umbrella that includes drag and drag culture. Kinky Boots is based partially on true events. In the film, Lola, a drag queen, meets Charlie, who has recently inherited his father’s shoe factory. The two team up in unexpected ways, to help save the factory and learn valuable lessons about legacy and self-determination along the way.
Disclosure (2020)
This film brings together leading transgender activists and actors, including Sam Feder and Laverne Cox. In it, trans people talk openly about the challenging reality of being transgender in the film industry, and the many ways Hollywood has historically misrepresented the community. The documentary also looks at how this media representation impacts real trans people.
Paris Is Burning (1990)
If you loved the hit series Pose, don't miss the iconic film that started it all. Paris Is Burning brings viewers into the New York ballroom community of the 80s, in all its glitz, glamour and drama. It also explores the intersections of homophobia, transphobia, racism, AIDS and poverty the community experienced, creating an intimate look at the often harsh reality of LGBTQ+ life.
Tangerine (2015)
Two trans women, one revenge plot and a zany hunt for a man who's wronged them: What could go wrong? This odyssey through Los Angeles to get back at an ex-boyfriend is both a chaotic romp and a refreshingly funny look at queer lived experience. Perfect for a movie night with friends, or a night in on the couch.
The Trans List (2016)
Featuring interviews with 11 trans and nonbinary celebrities and public figures, this documentary gets their life stories and experiences right from the source. Exploring the diversity of trans experience, this is a great film to watch if you want to learn more about what the lives of different trans people have been like.
The Danish Girl (2015)
Loosely based on the story of the Danish painter Lili Elbe as she transitions to female in the 1930s, as well as her love for fellow artist Gerda Wegener, this film is a beautiful portrayal of unconditional love. It's also just beautifully done, period. It also is a fascinating portrayal of transgender life in the early 1900s.
Drunktown's Finest (2015)
Meet three interconnected people living on a remote Navajo reservation, a teen teen father, a christian college-bound student, and a beautiful transgender woman. Life for these characters gets complicated, and their lives begin to intersect. This is a beautiful portrayal of a trans woman of color, played by a trans woman of color, in a film also written and directed by one. Now that's what we call representation! More of this please!
Transfinite (2020)
In seven shorts, this Indie sci-fi flick follows supernatural LGBTQ+ characters as they use their powers to protect, love, teach, fight and thrive. This film centers trans lives and trans joy. Bringing together seven standalone short films, the films explore overcoming discrimination, self actualization, finding love, and creating systemic radical political social change to uplift trans people.
Passing (2015)
Following three trans men of color, this short documentary explores what it’s like to live as a Black man and how their transitions have impacted their lives, and communities. The film looks at the intersections of race and gender and the reality of becoming a Black man in America.
Gun Hill Road (2011)
When Enrique returns from three years in prison, he finds his wife is having an emotional affair and his child has come out as transgender. The film follows as she comes out, transitions and navigates life in The Bronx as a young transgender woman. Featuring the first trans actress to be nominated for an acting award in the U.S., her powerful performance is brilliant and worth watching.
Watch Next
Our Favorite Pride Month Quotes
Inspiring Quotes From Transgender People
The History of the Trans Flag
Movies With Lesbian Characters You'll Love
