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Trans director Sam Feder's latest feature "Heightened Scrutiny" presents a powerful dual perspective – both an personal profile of a prominent trans activist and a pointed examination of media reporting surrounding trans existence.

Judicial Struggle at the Supreme Court

This documentary documents ACLU lawyer Chase Strangio as he gears up for oral arguments in the landmark Supreme Court case US v Skirmetti. These proceedings occurred in December 2024, with the judiciary eventually ruling in favor of the state's case, effectively allowing limitations on healthcare for transgender minors to remain in effect across over twenty US territories.

We created Heightened Scrutiny in only 16 months, explained Feder during a conversation. In comparison, my previous film Disclosure took me half a decade, so this was very accelerated. Our purpose was to raise dialogue so people would understand more about the case.

Human Narrative Amid Legal Struggle

While Feder presents a comprehensive analysis of how mainstream publications have promoted anti-trans talking points, the film's greatest achievement may be its captivating depiction of Strangio. Normally a measured attorney in public appearances, Strangio shows his vulnerability throughout the film.

That was a significant challenge, to share aspects of my life to a camera lens that I had worked hard to keep confidential, shared Strangio. Sam explained he wanted younger people to know that we struggled, to see what was done in support of these struggles for our fundamental rights.

Diverse Perspectives in the Movement

To strengthen Strangio's account, Feder includes numerous transgender advocates, including well-known individuals from activism and the arts. This production also features viewpoints from non-trans advocates who examine how mainstream media outlets have added to damaging reporting of trans people.

The perspective of transgender youth key to the legal case is illustrated through a remarkable 12-year-old activist named Mila. Viewers first see her speaking out for her fellow students at a educational meeting, with subsequent footage showing her demonstrating for transgender rights outside the highest court.

Intimate Scenes Beyond the Courtroom

The documentary also includes poignant moments where Feder steps outside the constant political struggle, such as footage of Strangio traveling in Italy and receiving a body art featuring verses from activist Pauli Murray's poem "Prediction."

This body art scene is one of my most cherished sections in the movie, explained Strangio. Being tattooed is almost like a meditative experience for me, to be fully present in my body and to think of it as a vessel for things that are meaningful to me.

Physical Identity and Portrayal

Feder's dedication to thoughtfully documenting Strangio adding to his body art emphasizes that Heightened Scrutiny is fundamentally about trans physical selves – not only those of young people who face prohibition of their right to live authentically in their own bodies, but also the bodies of the many participants who appear in the film.

I produce films with a message, and part of that is picking people who are brilliant and articulate enough to carry the camera, explained Feder. Whenever people ask me what they should dress for an filming, my response is anything that makes you feel attractive. This is crucial to me – as transgender individuals, we face challenges so much with our appearance.

Legacy and Optimism

A key aspect that causes Feder's works excel is his evident ability for making his trans participants feel at ease, seen and admired. This methodology develops genuine connection between Feder and Strangio, helping the filmmaker to achieve his aim of presenting Strangio as a multifaceted person and providing a document for coming generations of how persistently he and others have struggled for trans liberties.

I don't want people to end up in a state of perpetual despair because of what the law is denying us, explained Strangio. I aim to be in a practice of using the law to lessen harm, but not to turn it into some kind of pathway for our liberatory possibilities. Official institutions is not going to be the mirror through which we view ourselves. Our community are that mirror, and it's extremely crucial that we continue having that conversation together with discussions about fighting back these laws and approaches.

Heightened Scrutiny is now accessible for digital rental during Trans Awareness Week and will receive a broader launch at a future date.