Emily Garbutt
Updated on: October 8, 2024 10:45 am GMT
Netflix has officially launched the trailer for “Will & Harper,” an intimate documentary featuring actor Will Ferrell and his long-time friend, Harper Steele. The film, which premiered at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival, offers a heartfelt exploration of friendship and self-identity, stemming from a significant turning point in their relationship.
Documentary Overview
The documentary “Will & Harper” chronicles a transformative journey undertaken by Ferrell and Steele over 16 days as they travel from New York to Los Angeles. The storyline is anchored in a deeply personal moment for the duo. Two years prior to their road trip, Ferrell received an unexpected email from Steele, revealing that she was coming out as a trans woman.
The synopsis provided by Netflix highlights the enduring friendship forged between Ferrell and Steele, dating back to 1995 when they first met during Ferrell’s tenure at “Saturday Night Live.” Their collaboration during the show’s heyday produced some of its most memorable characters and sketch comedy bits. The documentary aims to present a more personal and emotional angle, as the two friends navigate the complexities of their evolving friendship and Steele’s journey as a trans individual.
Insights on Friendship and Acceptance
The film promises to delve into the concepts of friendship and acceptance, portraying their experiences with humor and sincerity. As they make meaningful stops along their route, Ferrell and Steele reflect on their shared memories and confront the societal and personal implications of Steele’s transition. Alongside moments of laughter and joy, the documentary captures the challenges they face, reinforcing the idea that change, while daunting, can lead to profound beauty in relationships.
Director Josh Greenbaum, known for his work on “Strays” and “Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar,” utilizes a distinctive approach to storytelling. His style moves away from traditional documentary techniques, opting for a format reminiscent of reality television. This enables a more engaging narrative that invites viewers to immerse themselves in the journey of Ferrell and Steele.
Reception and Festivals
The premiere of “Will & Harper” at the Sundance Film Festival received positive acclaim from audiences and critics alike. Peter Debruge, a film critic for Variety, praised the film’s approach, noting that it successfully captures the essence of the friendship between the two through a blend of humor and heartfelt moments. The filmmakers expressed their gratitude for the audience’s warm reception, emphasizing their hope that the film will contribute to a cultural shift towards greater understanding and acceptance of LGBTQ+ narratives.
Following its success at Sundance, “Will & Harper” is set to be featured at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 11. It will then be released in select theaters on September 13, with the Netflix streaming debut scheduled for September 27.
Collaborative History of Ferrell and Steele
Will Ferrell and Harper Steele’s friendship has spanned nearly three decades, characterized by mutual support and collaboration. During their stint on “Saturday Night Live,” Steele contributed significantly to Ferrell’s career, co-creating some of his most iconic skits and characters. Their connection remained strong even after their time on the show, as they reunited for the 2020 film “Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga.”
The documentary not only celebrates their artistic endeavors but also the personal growth and understanding they foster in each other. As Ferrell explores this new chapter in Steele’s life, it reinforces the sentiment that true friendship can adapt and flourish through significant life changes.
Thematic Exploration
At its core, “Will & Harper” is about the transformative power of friendship. The film aims to resonate with audiences by exploring the delicate intersections of identity, acceptance, and companionship. By sharing their unique experiences, Ferrell and Steele hope to foster a deeper understanding of the journeys undertaken by individuals within the LGBTQ+ community.
The road trip serves as a metaphor for exploration—both geographical and emotional—as the duo revisits places of significance in their lives while forging new memories amidst Steele’s transition. Through candid discussions and relatable experiences, they challenge societal norms and encourage dialogues centered around acceptance and identity.
Future Prospects
The anticipation surrounding “Will & Harper” reflects a growing interest in LGBTQ+ narratives in mainstream media. As more stories are told through authentic lenses, there is hope that viewers will cultivate a broader understanding and acceptance of diverse identities. The film’s blend of humor and heartfelt storytelling positions it as a meaningful addition to the ongoing conversation about friendship, love, and acceptance.
With its upcoming release, “Will & Harper” stands to impact audiences by highlighting the importance of support and understanding during personal transformations. The documentary invites viewers to join Ferrell and Steele on their journey of redefinition and love, proving that, while change can be challenging, it can also lead to beautiful new beginnings.
If you’re curious about friendship and acceptance, you should check out “Will & Harper.” It’s a special show that will make you think and feel, and it will be on Netflix later this month.
