Frank’s Film Review: Elle/Elle
⭐⭐⭐⭐/5

Premiering on June 12, 2025, elle/elle is far more than just a short film. Directed by Kelley Kali and written by Shonnie Jackson, the 19-minute narrative brings to life a powerful and nuanced story rooted in truth, offering an uncompromising portrayal of self-discovery, resilience, and the complexities of love.

At the heart of elle/elle is elle, portrayed by the luminous la georgea, navigating the deeply personal terrain of coming out as a trans woman to her gay husband, Fritz, played by Dan Bucatinsky. The story is an intimate reflection of la georgea’s own life, lending the film a raw authenticity rarely seen in LGBTQ+ storytelling.

The plot revolves around a pivotal evening. A dinner party meant to be a social gathering becomes a crucible of emotions instead. The couple unravels as the room fills with buried fears, truths, and pressing challenges. Fritz grapples with the unexpected recalibration of his identity as elle courageously reclaims her own, culminating in a narrative that is both deeply personal and universally resonant.

With the guidance of Kelley Kali, whose direction captures the emotional highs and lows with precision, and the skillful writing of Shonnie Jackson, elle/elle achieves a perfect marriage of authenticity and artistry. la georgea’s performance is nothing short of a tour de force. She channels both vulnerability and strength into her role, balancing elle’s pain, hope, and unwavering determination with palpable sincerity. Dan Bucatinsky’s layered performance as Fritz highlights the complexity of navigating change when love and identity collide, while L’lerrét Jazelle’s supporting role adds depth to the tangled web of relationships.

elle/elle stands out not only for its gripping narrative but for its significant contribution to the broader conversation around gender and identity. Coming at a time when authentic representation in film is both crucial and overdue, it brings attention to the unspoken struggles within trans and queer communities.

The narrative boldly ventures into the intersectionality of gender and sexuality within a marriage, addressing the often-overlooked challenges faced by individuals and couples as identities shift and evolve. This story isn’t just about the trials of love and self-discovery but also about visibility, acceptance, and the sheer courage it takes to be authentic in a world that often demands conformity.

After viewing the film, I had the privilege of interviewing la georgea to explore the story behind its creation. Below is a carefully curated selection of our conversation, featuring the most insightful questions and answers.

Frank Gaimari: elle/elle draws inspiration from your coming-out story. What motivated you to share such a personal experience?

la georgea: It was actually my director, Kelley Kali, whom I consider my sister. A few months after I came out as a trans woman, she had the wonderful but very daring idea to reintroduce me to the world as an actress, in my true gender. Until then, I had only been known as a ‘male’ actor.

FG: How did revisiting such an intimate chapter of your life feel while acting it out on screen?

lg: It was terrifying, to be honest. Yes, I wanted to tell my story in an intimate way that hadn’t been done before, and I absolutely loved Kelley’s idea, but I was also completely petrified. However, I like to commit to a story fully—I honor authenticity, go all in, and, if it’s not scary, is it even worth it? A project needs to feel like a seemingly insurmountable challenge to be truly interesting and, ultimately, move the audience.

FG: Did the filming process reveal any new insights about your journey or feelings surrounding your coming out?

lg: It really didn’t. But it ultimately confirmed my deep commitment to finally living my full and honest truth. Oh, and it restored my trust in my acting abilities, which I wasn’t sure would transition with me! The wonderful L’lerrét Jazelle helped me with that. In a way, I feel like I’m a more honest actor than I’ve ever been before. I no longer have to pretend to be a man.

FG: How involved were you in shaping the script and ensuring the authenticity of the story?

lg: I was 100 percent intimately involved from day one. It was meant to be my true story, so I was all in—no holds barred. Additionally, I was so grateful that the formidable Dan Bucatinsky brought so much truth and authenticity to my husband’s character with his brilliant acting and creative input.

FG: What was it like working with Kelley Kali and Shonnie Jackson to bring your story to life, and how did their vision align with your own?

lg: It was wonderful. The interview sessions with Shonnie were a marvel of pure self-discovery. Shonnie HEARD me as much as Kelley SAW me. To be so lovingly and caringly supported by these magnificent artists, to be respected in this way as a woman by other women, and to be seen and heard with such deep consideration meant everything to me at that early stage of my transition journey. These two resplendent Black women are most certainly my staunchest allies.

FG: What message do you hope your story sends to other transgender individuals and their partners navigating similar journeys?

lg: First of all, as in my case, it is never too late! Never too late to come out, to finally live in your full and honest truth. Was it absolutely gut-wrenching and frightening to come out to my husband of so many years? Indeed, it was—but it was also absolutely necessary and ultimately unavoidable. Walk your path, find your truth, and live it in whatever way fits your own personal life.

FG: How has sharing your story in such a public way impacted you personally and professionally?

lg: Personally, not really, but certainly professionally—things are truly starting to happen, as they say. The response has been absolutely overwhelming in the best way possible, and I am so deeply grateful.

elle/elle is a cinematic masterpiece that transcends its brief runtime, leaving a profound and lasting impact on its audience. With its heartfelt exploration of authenticity, love, and resilience, the film resonates on a deeply human level. This is more than just a movie—it’s an experience that will stay with you long after the credits roll. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness this extraordinary work of art.

Frank Gaimari is an author, film reviewer, and actor. He lives in Seattle, Washington, with his husband and two golden retrievers.