Adam Vary
Updated on: October 7, 2024 2:22 pm GMT
Will Ferrell, the beloved comedic actor known for his iconic roles in film and television, takes on a more personal project in the upcoming Netflix documentary “Will & Harper.” The film portrays Ferrell’s journey across the United States with his longtime friend, Harper Steele, who is undergoing a significant life transition. Set to premiere on September 27, 2024, the documentary explores themes of friendship, acceptance, and personal growth during a pivotal time in Steele’s life as she comes out as a trans woman.
A Road Trip of Transformation
The genesis of this heartfelt journey began two years ago when Steele, who was a head writer for “Saturday Night Live” during Ferrell’s tenure on the show, sent an email to Ferrell revealing her transition. Their friendship, which dates back to their first meeting at the iconic 30 Rockefeller Plaza in 1995, has flourished over the years, characterized by mutual support and camaraderie. Inspired by their unique bond, Ferrell proposed the idea of a cross-country road trip to help Steele embrace her new identity.
I thought it would be amazing to travel together, giving her the opportunity to visit places she loves while I support her as a friend,” Ferrell said in explaining his motivation for the documentary. The trip not only serves as a backdrop for Steele’s transformation but also allows both friends to explore the evolution of their relationship.
A Journey through America
Directed by Josh Greenbaum, “Will & Harper” chronicles their 16-day excursion from New York to Los Angeles, making stops at locations that hold significance for both Ferrell and Steele. These locales range from exhilarating car races to cowboy bars, places where Steele once felt intimidated due to her fear of being judged.
“I didn’t just want to come out in places like New York or LA; I love the whole country,” Steele shared in a statement about her desire to reconnect with her roots. The journey aims to provide her a sense of safety and acceptance in her own country while giving audiences an intimate look into her experiences.
Capturing Friendship and Acceptance
The trailer for “Will & Harper” reveals a mix of laughter, heartfelt conversations, and emotional moments as the duo navigates their road trip. In one poignant scene, Steele expresses her complicated feelings about attending certain social gatherings: “I’m not really afraid of these people. I’m afraid of hating myself… All I wanted to do was live.” This profound statement reflects the struggles many face during periods of significant personal change and the fear of self-acceptance.
Film critics are already raving about the documentary. Rolling Stone’s David Fear lauded it as a deep exploration of friendship that captures enduring bonds, stating that despite the inevitable changes individuals undergo, the foundational elements of companionship can remain intact. The film has been described as both “flawed” and “priceless” for its candid portrayal of the heartfelt moments between Ferrell and Steele.
A Reception at Sundance
Will & Harper” premiered at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival, where it received an overwhelmingly positive response from audiences. Netflix secured distribution rights for the documentary shortly after its festival debut in February. The film is poised to play at other prominent film festivals, including the Toronto International Film Festival on September 11, before its theatrical release on September 13.
Conclusion: A Celebration of Diversity and Humanity
At its core, “Will & Harper” is not merely a documentary about a road trip; it is a celebration of friendship, acceptance, and the beauty of embracing one’s true self. As friends tackle both the joys and challenges of this phase in Steele’s life, the documentary aims to foster conversations around identity, love, and the courage it takes to live authentically as oneself.
People are really excited about the movie “Will & Harper.” It’s not just funny; it also shows a deep friendship that goes beyond what society usually expects. The film will connect with anyone who has gone through changes in their life, making it an important story about how we see transgender people in movies and shows.
