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Trans filmmaker Sam Feder's latest film "Increased Examination" presents a powerful two-part perspective – simultaneously an intimate portrait of a key transgender activist and a critical analysis of media coverage surrounding trans rights.

Legal Struggle at the Supreme Court

The film follows ACLU lawyer Chase Strangio as he prepares for oral arguments in the important highest court case US v Skirmetti. These arguments happened in December 2024, with the court finally ruling in support of Tennessee's argument, practically enabling restrictions on medical transition for trans young people to remain in effect across numerous US states.

We made Heightened Scrutiny in merely 16 months, stated Feder during a discussion. In comparison, my earlier film Disclosure took me half a decade, so this was quite rushed. Our intention was to generate discussion so people would learn more about the case.

Personal Narrative Amid Political Struggle

Although Feder presents a comprehensive analysis of how mainstream publications have spread transphobic talking points, the film's primary accomplishment may be its captivating depiction of Strangio. Typically a cautious attorney in media settings, Strangio reveals his vulnerability throughout the documentary.

This represented a substantial challenge, to open up parts of my life to a filmmaker that I had worked hard to keep private, explained Strangio. Sam said he wanted younger people to know that we fought, to see what was done in defense of these battles for our material survival.

Diverse Voices in the Struggle

To enhance Strangio's narrative, Feder features multiple transgender voices, including prominent individuals from activism and the arts. The documentary also features insights from cisgender supporters who examine how established organizations have participated to harmful reporting of trans people.

The perspective of transgender minors central to the legal case is represented through a remarkable 12-year-old activist named Mila. Viewers observe her fighting for her fellow students at a educational meeting, with later moments showing her speaking for trans rights outside the highest court.

Intimate Scenes Beyond the Courtroom

This film also features poignant moments where Feder steps outside the constant political battle, including footage of Strangio traveling in Italy and getting a tattoo featuring lines from civil rights leader Pauli Murray's poem "Vision."

This ink scene is among my favorites in the movie, stated Strangio. Getting inked is practically like a reflective process for me, to be completely aware in my body and to consider it as a vessel for things that are important to me.

Physical Autonomy and Portrayal

The filmmaker's attention to carefully documenting Strangio getting to his tattoo collection underscores that this documentary is essentially about trans physical selves – not just those of young people who confront prohibition of their ability to live genuinely in their own bodies, but also the physical forms of the numerous participants who are featured in the film.

I make films with a message, and part of that is picking people who are outstanding and articulate enough to sustain the camera, explained Feder. Whenever people ask me what they should dress for an filming, my reply is whatever makes you feel attractive. This is essential to me – as trans people, we face challenges so much with our image.

Legacy and Hope

One element that causes Feder's documentaries stand out is his evident skill for making his transgender participants feel at ease, seen and admired. This technique develops authentic chemistry between Feder and Strangio, helping the filmmaker to realize his goal of portraying Strangio as a complete individual and providing a testament for future generations of how persistently he and others have campaigned for transgender liberties.

I don't want people to find themselves in a situation of incessant hopelessness because of what the law is denying us, stated Strangio. I want to be in a method of using the law to minimize harm, but not to make it some type of pathway for our liberatory possibilities. State bodies is not going to be the mirror through which we view ourselves. Our community are that mirror, and it's very crucial that we persist having that conversation alongside dialogues about fighting back these policies and procedures.

Heightened Scrutiny is currently available for online viewing during Trans Visibility Week and will receive a broader launch at a later date.