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Transgender filmmaker Sam Feder's latest feature "Increased Examination" offers a moving two-part perspective – simultaneously an intimate profile of a key transgender activist and a critical analysis of media coverage surrounding trans existence.

Legal Battle at the Highest Court

The film follows ACLU attorney Chase Strangio as he gears up for legal presentations in the landmark highest court case US v Skirmetti. These proceedings occurred in December 2024, with the judiciary ultimately ruling in support of the state's position, effectively allowing restrictions on treatment for trans young people to stay in effect across over twenty US states.

We made Heightened Scrutiny in only 16 months, stated Feder during an interview. By contrast, my earlier film Disclosure took me five years, so this was quite rushed. Our goal was to raise conversation so people would know more about the case.

Personal Story Amid Legal Struggle

Although Feder presents a comprehensive critique of how major publications have spread anti-trans narratives, the film's most valuable contribution may be its captivating portrayal of Strangio. Typically a measured lawyer in public settings, Strangio reveals his humanity throughout the film.

That was a major challenge, to share parts of my life to a camera lens that I had strived to keep confidential, stated Strangio. Sam told me he wanted the next generation to know that we tried, to see what was done in defense of these battles for our material survival.

Varied Perspectives in the Struggle

To enhance Strangio's account, Feder features multiple trans voices, including respected figures from activism and entertainment. The documentary also presents insights from cisgender advocates who examine how respected publications have contributed to damaging reporting of transgender individuals.

The perspective of transgender minors central to the court battle is shown through a remarkable 12-year-old student named Mila. Audiences observe her speaking out for her community at a educational meeting, with later scenes showing her protesting for trans rights outside the highest court.

Intimate Moments Beyond the Courtroom

Heightened Scrutiny also features poignant moments where Feder moves beyond the constant legal struggle, including scenes of Strangio vacationing in Italy and receiving a tattoo featuring verses from activist Pauli Murray's poem "Prediction."

This ink scene is among my favorites in the movie, shared Strangio. Getting inked is practically like a reflective experience for me, to be completely aware in my body and to think of it as a container for things that are meaningful to me.

Physical Identity and Representation

The filmmaker's dedication to thoughtfully capturing Strangio getting to his body art emphasizes that this film is essentially about trans physical selves – not only those of youth who confront denial of their right to live genuinely in their own bodies, but also the bodies of the many participants who appear in the production.

I produce films with a meaning, and part of that is picking people who are exceptional and concise enough to sustain the camera, stated Feder. Whenever people ask me what they should dress for an filming, my response is anything that makes you feel attractive. That is important to me – as transgender individuals, we face challenges so much with our self-perception.

Legacy and Hope

One aspect that causes Feder's works shine is his evident skill for making his trans subjects feel comfortable, acknowledged and appreciated. This methodology fosters authentic rapport between Feder and Strangio, helping the filmmaker to realize his objective of presenting Strangio as a complete individual and providing a record for posterity of how determinedly he and others have campaigned for trans rights.

I don't want people to end up in a situation of constant discouragement because of what the law is failing to provide us, shared Strangio. I want to be in a process of using the law to reduce harm, but not to make it some type of channel for our liberatory possibilities. State bodies is not going to be the reflection through which we see ourselves. Our community are that mirror, and it's very crucial that we continue having that conversation in addition to discussions about fighting back these regulations and procedures.

This important documentary is currently obtainable for digital rental during Trans Awareness Week and will receive a broader release at a later date.