Conversations about trans issues in the lesbian community often run into resistance from those who view transitioning as a trend or anti-feminist. BOY I AM follows three young New Yorkers from different race and class backgrounds as they transition from female to male, navigating decisions regarding hormones and surgical options, as well as the potential minefields posed by the reactions of friends, lovers, co-workers and the world at large. The film addresses questions that are rarely asked out loud: Do those who transition ever regret it? Is a transman straight or queer? What if transmen want to remain in the lesbian community? What if they don’t? This provocative and riveting documentary gives voice to the honest fears and misconceptions in the dyke community about transitioning, as well as to the hopes of transmen and their partners.

Boy I Am; Sam Feder and Julie Hollar, director; 2006; US; 65 minutes; video