David Powell
Updated on: October 13, 2024 10:09 am GMT
Will Ferrell and Harper Steele, long-time friends and former Saturday Night Live colleagues, are embarking on a unique journey in their new Netflix documentary, “Will & Harper.” The film captures their emotional cross-country road trip, shedding light on themes of friendship, identity, and the trans experience in a time of political adversity.
A Journey of Friendship and Discovery
The documentary follows Ferrell and Steele as they travel from New York to Los Angeles over 16 days. This trip is particularly significant for Steele, who came out as a trans woman in 2021. During the film’s premiere in Los Angeles, Steele shared her motivation for the project, stating, “There were a lot of trans bills being introduced…and it’s still looking a little restrictive and maybe a little dire for trans people.”
Steele explained how the idea for the documentary originated. “I had been road tripping across the country for most of my adult life, but since I transitioned, I wasn’t sure if I felt safe doing that anymore,” she said. “Will suggested that he fly to New York to join me for my first road trip as Harper.”
Documentary’s Impact and Reception
The film has already gained traction at notable film festivals, including Sundance and the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), where it received positive feedback. Ferrell expressed his surprise at the overwhelming response, particularly from the trans community. “It’s been incredible to see our work resonate so deeply. We’re a little overwhelmed,” he said.
- The documentary highlights personal stories over political narratives.
- It seeks to humanize the experiences of trans individuals.
- It challenges viewers to connect with stories rather than just statistics.
Director Josh Greenbaum hopes that “Will & Harper” can change how people perceive trans issues. He noted, “If you don’t know a trans person, and you watch this film, now you’ll know Harper, and she’s the best.”
Caption: Will Ferrell and wife Viveca Paulin at the premiere of “Will & Harper” in Los Angeles.
Breaking Stigmas in Comedy
As a comedian, Ferrell recognizes the importance of representation in his field. Steele addressed the challenges faced by the comedy community, stating, “You can’t control the comedy community. It’s always going to be a free for all.” In response, Greenbaum emphasized that comedy evolves with culture and hope to see greater acceptance moving forward.
The timing of “Will & Harper” is crucial, as it coincides with ongoing debates about trans rights across the United States. The film aims to shift the focus from a political narrative to a deeply personal story. Greenbaum stated, “Part of the issue is so many people don’t know trans people. They say 70 percent of people don’t know a trans person, so what they get comes from politicians or the media.”
Family Support and Personal Connections
Will Ferrell’s family made headlines at the premiere when his son, Mattias, stood taller than his 6’2” father. Attended by his wife Viveca Paulin and their other sons, Magnus and Axel, the premiere was a family affair. Ferrell often draws inspiration from his experiences as a dad. “Being a father to Mattias and his brothers is the most rewarding role I’ve ever had,” he shared with pride.
Ferrell humorously noted the challenges of raising three boys, likening it to managing an inmate facility. “It’s chaos,” he said, adding that parenting moments often find him resorting to playful embarrassment tactics.
Anticipation for the Streaming Release
Will & Harper” is set to stream on Netflix starting September 27. The film’s relatable and humorous take on friendship during times of personal transformation offers a refreshing narrative. As viewers anticipate its launch, it promises to not only entertain but also educate.
Conclusion
“Will & Harper” is more than just a documentary; it’s a heartfelt exploration of identity, friendship, and the human experience. As Ferrell and Steele navigate their journey together, they hope to inspire understanding and acceptance of trans individuals in today’s world. With its blend of humor and emotion, the film stands to become a significant part of conversations around identity and empathy, inviting audiences to connect with stories that represent real lives.
If you want to learn more about the experiences of transgender people in a fun and interesting way, you should definitely check out this documentary!
