“Marques’ treat is a mighty reckoning with who gets to tell what story and how, and I was all the way in” – Stephen A Russell

Prolific multi-hyphenate director Paula Tomás Marques dives into the ethical labyrinth of who has the right to tell which stories, challenging us to reconsider how we reclaim historical trans identities—with sharp, sardonic humor. Set in contemporary Lisbon, trans actress João eagerly accepts a role in a 16mm arthouse biopic about João Liberada, an 18th-century gender-nonconforming nun who sought sexual freedom but was ultimately betrayed by her lover. What seems like a dream job quickly turns surreal when João’s proposal to shift the film’s focus from its tragic ending to the remarkable life of her namesake is rejected by the domineering cis male director. This gem of a film shines brightly.

*For content warnings, please see content advice.

*Contains flashing images/strobe lighting.