Will & Harper (2024) Dir: Josh Greenbaum
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As someone who has a very personal connection to the trans community, the prospect of a mainstream documentary about a trans person and their friend exploring how their relationship has changed was both exciting and scary for me. I knew that this Josh Greenbaum directed film had received plenty of praise, but I was still a little nervous about how well it would cover trans issues.
Will Ferrell and Harper Steele were friends for decades before the latter's transition to become a woman, and this film explores the nuances of that friendship, and how it has, and has not, changed since that transition took place. The depth and love of their friendship was clear immediately, which was so sweet to see. I loved how the two approached one another, as well as how they discussed Harper's journey; it was both poignant and heartwarming.
Unfortunately, and inevitably, there were several emotional gut punches along the way. The readers will not need me to tell them how hard it is to be trans person in a world that so often fails to accept them or protect them. I cried a few times watching this - I felt a lot of empathy, and a lot of sadness for Harper. But one thing that prevailed above any negativity was the positive effect that Harper's transition has had for her.
The natural wit of both of them shone through wonderfully throughout the film, which made it a lot more entertaining and funny than I had perhaps anticipated - it being a documentary. It made it a very easy watch, in that regard. It was also a very easy film to look at, and featured some very pretty shots sprinkled about amongst the film. Add to this a very sweet song performed by actress Kristen Wiig, and you have a very heartwarming viewing experience.
Overall, this was a lovely documentary, that put a huge smile on my face. I loved the balance between education, anecdote, and friendship that was shown. I haven't enjoyed a documentary that much, from an emotional standpoint, in some time. I'm sure my aforementioned personal connection to the film's subject matter helped, but it really did get me on a number of occasions. It's a beautiful film.
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