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Transgender filmmaker Sam Feder's latest documentary "Increased Examination" presents a compelling dual perspective – both an intimate profile of a leading transgender activist and a pointed examination of media reporting about trans issues.

Judicial Battle at the Highest Court

This documentary documents ACLU lawyer Chase Strangio as he gets ready for legal presentations in the landmark Supreme Court case the Skirmetti case. These proceedings occurred in December 2024, with the court finally ruling in favor of the state's case, effectively enabling restrictions on medical transition for transgender minors to remain in place across over twenty US states.

We made Heightened Scrutiny in just 16 months, stated Feder during an interview. Meanwhile, my previous film Disclosure took me half a decade, so this was very accelerated. Our intention was to raise conversation so people would know more about the case.

Human Story Amid Legal Struggle

Although Feder offers a extensive analysis of how mainstream media outlets have promoted anti-trans rhetoric, the film's most valuable contribution may be its captivating depiction of Strangio. Typically a measured attorney in media settings, Strangio displays his authenticity throughout the documentary.

That was a significant challenge, to share parts of my life to a filmmaker that I had worked hard to keep personal, stated Strangio. Feder explained he wanted younger people to know that we fought, to see what was done in defense of these struggles for our basic existence.

Varied Perspectives in the Struggle

To support Strangio's narrative, Feder includes multiple transgender activists, including prominent figures from activism and the arts. The documentary also presents insights from non-trans advocates who analyze how established organizations have participated to damaging coverage of trans individuals.

The perspective of trans minors central to the court battle is illustrated through a remarkable young student named Mila. Viewers observe her fighting for her community at a educational meeting, with subsequent scenes showing her demonstrating for trans rights outside the highest court.

Intimate Scenes Beyond the Courtroom

This film also includes emotional moments where Feder steps outside the never-ending political struggle, including sequences of Strangio traveling in Italy and getting a body art featuring verses from civil rights leader Pauli Murray's poem "Prediction."

This body art sequence is among my preferred parts in the movie, shared Strangio. Getting inked is almost like a contemplative experience for me, to be totally engaged in my body and to view it as a vehicle for things that are important to me.

Physical Autonomy and Portrayal

Feder's dedication to carefully documenting Strangio getting to his body art underscores that this film is essentially about trans physical selves – not just those of young people who face prohibition of their ability to live authentically in their own bodies, but also the physical forms of the many participants who participate in the documentary.

I make films with a message, and part of that is picking people who are exceptional and eloquent enough to carry the camera, explained Feder. Whenever people ask me what they should wear for an interview, my response is whatever makes you feel attractive. That is crucial to me – as transgender individuals, we struggle so much with our self-perception.

Legacy and Optimism

A key aspect that makes Feder's documentaries shine is his evident skill for making his trans interviewees feel comfortable, seen and valued. This methodology creates real connection between Feder and Strangio, allowing the filmmaker to achieve his goal of presenting Strangio as a multifaceted human being and leaving a document for posterity of how determinedly he and fellow activists have fought for transgender rights.

I don't want people to find themselves in a state of perpetual hopelessness because of what the law is failing to provide us, shared Strangio. I want to be in a practice of using the law to reduce harm, but not to turn it into some kind of pathway for our liberation aspirations. Official institutions is not going to be the reflection through which we view ourselves. Trans people are that mirror, and it's very crucial that we continue having that dialogue in addition to discussions about fighting back these laws and practices.

This significant film is presently obtainable for digital rental during Trans Visibility Week and will receive a more extensive release at a subsequent date.