By Ande Richards, NLGJA-LA Board Member
Transgender people have been a constant hot topic in mainstream media. The public witnessed every step of Caitlin Jenner’s high-profile transition. They have heard the attacks on trans in the military by Donald Trump and his constituency, and have listened to the pros and cons and lies inherent in the ongoing battles of the bathroom bills.
Umbrella talks about these high-profile topics, but in a non-exploitative way that is at once beautiful and powerful. The film features four trans people from a cross-section of the United States. They are average people, who whether they want to be or not, are integral to the trans movement for equality.
The 15-minute short starts out mundanely, with one of the characters, Evan taking their kayak out on the water. Next we see Jasmine with their dog, Monica working in their garage and Mara sitting on the steps of a building in the rain under an umbrella. This quietly pensive tone continues through the narrative as we are taken on a journey to learn about four very different trans people. Director, Rhys Ernst’s choice not to over-dramatize the film creates an expressive texture for the story, and Hannan Townshend’s music composition strikes the right emotional tone that is never manipulative or frivolous.
Each character provides the audience with layered glimpses into the struggle the transgender community faces. They represent trans in the military, trans as policy influencers, trans as viable entrepreneurs in the U.S. economy and trans as leaders in the fight for recognition and equality.
Beyond these vast social issues Umbrella reveals a humanity we do not always see in film with regard to trans characters. Personal issues trans people endure, like being banned from seeing a parent, or having people visibly cringe when they meet them in person, are revealed.
Umbrella is short but honest and intelligent. It serves up a narrative worthy of its subjects. Rhys Ernst’s direction is understated and fluid and the stars of this film, Monica Helms, Mara Keisling, Jasmine Morrell and Evan Young are exemplary of ordinary people creating change.
Umbrella is part of this year’s QFilms Fesitval Long Beach’s Queer & Trans Shorts, which takes place at 12:30 p.m. Sept. 9, at The Art Theatre 2025 E. 4th St., Long Beach, 90814.
Get your tickets at: http://qfilmslongbeach.com.
Blog 