At a Glance
- Scott Turner Schofield releases a 127-story documentary about his life as a trans man, streaming Jan. 27.
- The film marks the first time a trans actor has earned an Emmy nomination for acting and now tells his story in his own voice.
- Schofield says the project is a response to rising anti-trans rhetoric and a call for a new wave of authentic representation.
Why it matters: The film offers a nuanced, humorous, and dignified look at a trans life, aiming to reshape public perception and inspire future storytelling.
Scott Turner Schofield’s new film Becoming a Man in 127 EASY Steps invites audiences into more than 20 years of his life, from pre-transition adolescence to present day. The documentary is a collection of 127 short narratives that trace his journey and the cultural shifts that have surrounded it. It debuted on streaming platform Kinema on Jan. 27, a date that underscores the urgency of its message.
Film Overview
The film is structured as a series of vignettes, each focusing on a pivotal moment or memory. Schofield explains that the format allows him to present his story with the same humor and honesty that have defined his career. He says, “I transitioned as a teenager 25 years ago in the South, which is not that long ago. But in terms of what has happened in our culture, it’s so far away.” The documentary therefore serves as both a personal memoir and a cultural snapshot.
Personal Journey
Schofield’s story began in a region where trans identities were rarely visible. He recounts how, 25 years ago, he had to create a one-man show for theater because he could not be cast in productions due to his gender identity. “Back 20 years ago, when I started, I had to create a one-man show for theater because I couldn’t even get cast in theater productions because I was trans,” he explains. This early experience shaped his commitment to telling trans stories.
Industry Impact
As the first openly trans actor to appear on daytime television on The Bold and the Beautiful, Schofield has consulted on major shows like Euphoria. He stresses that his work in the industry has always been about amplifying trans voices. “I started telling my trans story first as a way to be able to be an actor and perform, but also because I wasn’t seeing those stories in very many places,” he says. The film’s release coincides with a renewed push for authentic representation in media.
Message to Viewers
Schofield’s comments highlight the emotional stakes of sharing a trans life publicly. “I’m really sad to say that this is the scariest moment in history to be trans,” he says. He acknowledges that visibility can increase risk but also believes that representation is essential. “Even though releasing a movie about my life as a trans person makes me more visible – and therefore more of a target right now – sharing a story that depicts a full and long life with nuance, dignity and humor feels like the most powerful way I could possibly be of assistance,” he states.
Availability
The documentary is available for streaming on Kinema beginning Jan. 27. Viewers can watch the film at their own pace, with each story lasting only a few minutes. The platform’s accessibility features aim to reach a broad audience, including those who might be new to trans narratives.
Key Themes
- Resilience: Schofield emphasizes that being trans requires resilience in the face of societal hostility.
- Self-Authorship: He advocates for control over one’s own story, stating, “I do believe there will be a next wave of transgender representation, and I’m really looking forward to us having control over how we tell our stories.”
- Community Impact: Schofield believes that each trans person’s story can shift perceptions and challenge stereotypes.
Contextual Background
The film’s release follows a period of increased anti-trans rhetoric in mainstream media. Schofield describes the current climate as “the scariest moment in history to be trans,” underscoring the urgency of his project. He hopes the film will provide a counterbalance to negative narratives.
Personal Reflections
Schofield reflects on the humor that has helped him navigate his journey. “I hope people get to spend an hour feeling like they’ve been in a really welcoming and accessible conversation with a trans person,” he says. He believes that humor can break down barriers and create empathy.
Industry Milestones
Schofield’s Emmy nomination for acting marks a historic moment for trans representation in television. His career trajectory-from stage to daytime TV to streaming-illustrates the growing acceptance of trans performers.
Future Outlook
He expresses optimism about the future of trans storytelling. “The more we see what’s happening to us, the stronger we show up in the world, and that’s not going to stop,” he says. He believes that the next wave of representation will be led by trans creators.
Audience Takeaway
Schofield invites viewers to engage with his stories as a means of fostering understanding. He encourages audiences to recognize the humanity behind each narrative, stating that “every trans person is changing the world around them all the time.”
Closing Thoughts
Becoming a Man in 127 EASY Steps is more than a film; it is a call to action. Schofield uses his platform to challenge stigma, promote authenticity, and inspire a new generation of trans storytellers. By sharing his life in 127 concise moments, he offers a roadmap for resilience, representation, and hope.
