TL;DR
- Elliot Page discusses his new documentary ‘Second Nature’.
- The film explores same-sex behavior in animals.
- Page reflects on the shame of growing up queer.
- He challenges cis-heteronormative views of nature.
- The documentary aims to educate and entertain.
In a world where nature is often painted in strict, heteronormative strokes, Elliot Page is here to shake things up with his new documentary, Second Nature. This film isn’t just another nature doc; it’s a bold exploration of same-sex relationships and gender fluidity across the animal kingdom, narrated and co-produced by the ever-inspiring Page.
Reflecting on his own experiences, Page opened up about the shame and loneliness he felt growing up queer. “You feel like something’s wrong with you,” he told PEOPLE, revealing how isolation can grip a young queer kid. “For me, growing up as a queer kid, there was this feeling of being completely alone. Of course, in retrospect, you weren’t – but it feels like that at the time. You feel excluded.” It’s a sentiment that resonates with so many in the LGBTQ+ community, reminding us that while we may feel isolated, we are not alone.
Directed by Drew Denny, Second Nature is on a mission to debunk the myth that queerness is unnatural. Page passionately argues that the idea of nature being organized around a cis-heteronormative system is “completely false.” He highlights the vast array of same-sex pairings and gender diversity found in the animal kingdom, challenging viewers to rethink what they’ve been taught. “This idea that nature is organized around a cis-heteronormative system is completely false,” he states, pushing back against outdated narratives.
But it’s not just about critiquing the status quo; Page connects the feelings of shame to what society teaches us and what gets left out of the conversation. “You’re carrying these bricks of shame,” he explains, linking this burden to the censorship and erasure that permeate our culture, science, and education. The prevalence of same-sex behavior and gender diversity among species is often omitted from mainstream biology lessons, leaving many to feel like they’re the only ones who don’t fit the mold.
What’s refreshing about Second Nature is its accessibility. Page describes it as not only informative but also entertaining, stating, “It’s entertaining, it’s funny, it’s beautifully made. But it’s also incredibly valuable information – no matter who you are or how you identify.” This documentary is set to be a game-changer, providing not just laughs and beautiful visuals, but crucial insights that challenge societal norms.
Page, who is no stranger to the spotlight, is best known for his roles in Juno and Netflix’s The Umbrella Academy. Since coming out as transgender in 2020, he has become a fierce advocate for trans rights and LGBTQ+ visibility. His recent projects, including a lesbian softball series, showcase his commitment to representation and inclusivity.
So, whether you’re an animal lover, a queer advocate, or just someone looking for a fresh perspective on nature, Second Nature promises to deliver a wild ride that’s both enlightening and entertaining. Get ready to rethink everything you thought you knew about queerness in the animal kingdom!