TL;DR
- Two new books focus on trans and bisexual cinema.
- Laura Horak’s ‘Trans Cinema’ explores trans representation.
- Jacob Engelberg’s ‘Cinemas of Bisexual Transgression’ challenges norms.
- Both authors advocate for a broader understanding of LGBTQ+ media.
- These works aim to reshape cultural conversations around queerness.
Hold onto your popcorn, darling, because the world of LGBTQ+ film studies is getting a fabulous makeover! Two new books are here to shake things up and redefine how we see queer cinema. First up, we have Trans Cinema: Remaking Communities, Identities, and Worlds by the brilliant Laura Horak. This gem dives deep into the vibrant world of trans filmmaking, pushing boundaries and challenging the status quo. Horak, a Professor of Film Studies at Carleton University and director of the Transgender Media Lab, asks a burning question: “What do trans-made films do?” And honey, she’s got answers.
Horak argues that trans filmmaking isn’t just about representation; it’s about creating new worlds of possibility. “Trans filmmaking can create new worlds of possibility, new glimmers of possible lives,” she writes. And she’s not just talking the talk—her book is packed with rich histories of trans representation in mainstream media and independent filmmaking. She covers everything from trans film festivals to the complex narratives that trans filmmakers are exploring today.
But wait, there’s more! Enter Jacob Engelberg with his provocative work, Cinemas of Bisexual Transgression. This book is a cheeky exploration of bisexual representation on screen, focusing on characters that break all the rules. Engelberg dives into the concept of “bisexual transgression”—think characters who defy social norms and challenge the straight-gay binary. He argues that these representations offer glimpses into a world where bisexuality isn’t just an afterthought but a central narrative thread.
Engelberg’s writing is as spicy as it is insightful. He opens with a bold analysis of a notorious film scene, setting the stage for a discussion about desire that transcends gender. “The ass has no gender,” he quips, reminding us that the complexities of sexuality are anything but black and white. His exploration of bisexuality in film is a much-needed addition to queer film studies, where it has often been overlooked.
Both Horak and Engelberg are not just writing for the sake of academia; they are on a mission to transform cultural conversations about bi and trans media. They want us to move beyond the tired positive/negative dichotomy that often plagues discussions about LGBTQ+ representation. Instead, they encourage us to think critically about how these films shape our understanding of identity, community, and desire.
Horak’s book is structured in two parts: Foundations and Key Themes. The Foundations section lays the groundwork with rich histories of trans representation, while the Key Themes chapters delve into issues like community, family, and the complexities of embodiment and transition. Each chapter is a treasure trove of insights, complete with recommended screenings for those eager to dive deeper into the world of trans cinema.
Engelberg, on the other hand, takes a more academic approach, but his arguments are no less compelling. He challenges the monosexist lens that has dominated queer film studies, urging readers to adopt a bisexual perspective to truly grasp the nuances of sexuality on screen. His analysis of bisexuality as a lens for understanding queer film is groundbreaking, and his cheeky provocations keep readers engaged and questioning.
Together, Trans Cinema and Cinemas of Bisexual Transgression are not just books; they are calls to action for scholars and fans alike. They urge us to embrace a more inclusive understanding of LGBTQ+ media and to recognize the vital contributions of trans and bisexual creators. As Horak poignantly states, “Trans-made media is all the more important during this time of crisis—to tell the truth about the world and keep remembering what else has been and imagining what else could be.” So grab these books, gather your friends, and let’s start a conversation about the future of queer cinema that is as vibrant and diverse as the community itself.
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