No Ordinary Man (Oscilloscope Laboratories)

A beautifully constructed documentary about trans jazz musician Billy Tipton and his unfortunate outing at his death during a time when society and media were ill-equipped (I'm definitely oversimplifying with that term) to discuss and analyze the transgender experience.

The documentary is interwoven with interviews of trans men and trans women, sharing their views and experiences as well as their thoughts on Billy Tipton's life. The interviewees are also seen auditioning for a casting call to play Billy.

It is a very touching film and perhaps THE most touching aspect is Billy's eldest son able to see how iconic his deceased father has been to generations of the transgender community.

Thank you Criterion 24/7 for exposing me to a wonderful film I hadn't heard of until today.