In the critically acclaimed slice-of-life film “Mutt,” directed by Vuk Lungulov-Klotz, audiences are immersed in a day in the life of Feña, a young transgender man navigating the bustling streets of New York City while reuniting with figures from his past. Portrayed by Lío Mehiel, Feña encounters his ex-boyfriend, estranged father, and younger sister for the first time since his transition. The film delves deep into the complexities of relationships and self-discovery, prompting Feña to question whether it’s the prejudices of others or his own insecurities that keep him at a distance.
Mehiel, who uses they/them pronouns, found the role of Feña to be refreshingly different from typical trans portrayals in media. Instead of his gender identity being the sole focus, the character’s primary motivation revolves around the challenge of picking up his estranged father from the airport in less than 24 hours. Feña’s journey to achieve this goal involves a series of hurdles, including failed attempts to borrow a car, encounters with strangers, and unexpected reunions with people from his past.
What sets Mehiel’s performance apart is their ability to convey Feña’s palpable wariness around people, including those he’s intimately acquainted with. As Mehiel explains, “The more we could lean into that contrast, the more human and specific the portrayal became.” Moments like when Feña is misgendered and refused help by a bank teller illustrate the challenges he faces daily, highlighting the disparities in how he is treated.
Feña’s journey takes an emotionally charged turn when his father, portrayed by Chilean actor Alejandro Goic, begins to question and invalidate Feña’s transition, leading to a powerful confrontation. Throughout the film, Feña’s relationships with family members are explored, revealing the consequences of his absence in his sister’s life due to his attempt to protect her from their abusive mother.
“Mutt,” as its title suggests, explores themes of transition and in-betweenness. Drawing from the director’s own experiences as a trans man and the child of immigrants, the film authentically portrays the intersection of cultural background and transgender identity. For Lío Mehiel, who identifies with some aspects of Feña’s character, it was a serendipitous match.
Despite having roots in the industry, Mehiel’s portrayal of Feña in “Mutt” has garnered significant attention, making them the first trans person to win the U.S. Dramatic Special Jury Award: Acting at the Sundance Film Festival. Their performance’s sincerity and vulnerability have left a lasting impact, with moments like the intimate laundromat scene resonating deeply with viewers.
In the end, “Mutt” offers a poignant reflection on the complexities of transgender journeys and the enduring bonds of family. As Mehiel aptly puts it, “It’s just one day in the life of this person,” a day that beautifully encapsulates the universal struggle for acceptance and love.
Editor’s note: The interview with Lío Mehiel was conducted before the SAG-AFTRA strike began on July 14.