15 year old transgender boy from Prince George
In recognition of Transgender Day of Remembrance/Resilience, Salazar Film is publicly releasing a short documentary entitled “Handsome and Majestic”. A multiple award-winning 12 minute film that has played at over 21 festivals worldwide, from Manitoba to New Zealand, this short documentary profiles Milan, a 15-year-old transgender boy growing up in the northern Canadian city of Prince George, B.C.
Out in Schools had a profound impact on Milan. As Milan describes, he was reading a pamphlet about LGBTQ and after reading it twice, he knew what transgender meant. An Out in Schools presentation was taking place at School, and the presenter came out as transgender to the students, and it left him feeling empowered.
“Beautiful and moving work”, “An inspiring and moving portrait of Milan and his family”, describes what viewers are saying about this film.
As a recently transitioned transgender boy, Milan deals with discrimination from his peers and teachers at school, as he seeks to find other kids like himself. His parents are open and supportive throughout his transition, and his sister Lulu never questioned that Milan was her brother. However, at his elementary school, he must face the lack of education, intolerance and even assault. When Milan meets another transgender boy in his neighbourhood, he finally finds someone his age who understands and shares his experience. With the support of his friends and family, Milan has become a role model and an advocate for trans individuals in his small community and beyond.
As awareness of transgender issues grows, young advocates like Milan become increasingly important. Milan’s story of perseverance and strength offers inspiration to other LGBTQ+ youth while also providing education for the greater public. The directors share “Our hope is that by helping Milan share his story his strength and generosity will be met in equal measure by the community he works to improve”.
As part of the release of the film, the filmmakers are also running a “GoFundMe” campaign in order to raise funds to get Milan fitted for a suit in New York City by renowned tailors Bindle & Keep, who specialize in suits for non-binary and trans people. After “Handsome and Majestic” screened alongside “Suited”, a feature documentary about them at Hot Docs Festival 2016, the tailors have generously offered to make Milan a suit of his own.
To contribute to help this wish come true, go to: https://www.gofundme.com/milansuitnyc
Check out more at Salazar Film here.
