Transmasculine Suicide Explored in ‘What Will I Become?’ Film

The documentary film “What Will I Become?”, co-directed by Logan Rozos and Lexie Bean, confronts the critical issue of transmasculine suicide with a focus on specificity and poignant remembrance. Rozos states early in the film, "We are not taken seriously, so we have to take ourselves very seriously," setting a tone that underscores the film's intent to treat its subject matter with profound gravity. While largely avoiding the format of a public service announcement, the film delves into the experiences of individuals within the transmasculine community, exploring the profound losses and the internal struggles that can lead to suicidal ideation. The directors aim to provide a nuanced and deeply personal portrait, moving beyond statistics to humanize the crisis.

“What Will I Become?” centers on the lives and experiences of several individuals, offering viewers an intimate look at their journeys. The film highlights the unique challenges faced by transmasculine individuals, including societal misunderstandings, discrimination, and the internal pressures that can arise from navigating gender identity in a world that often struggles with acceptance. By focusing on personal narratives, the documentary seeks to foster empathy and understanding, encouraging viewers to engage with the complexities of transmasculine lives. The co-directors, Rozos and Bean, have crafted a work that is both a memorial and an exploration, aiming to shed light on a crisis that is often overlooked or oversimplified in public discourse. The film’s approach is characterized by its sensitivity and its commitment to honoring the individuals whose stories are told.

The film’s narrative structure is designed to immerse the audience in the emotional landscape of its subjects. Through a combination of interviews, archival footage, and personal reflections, “What Will I Become?” builds a comprehensive picture of the challenges and triumphs experienced by transmasculine individuals. The directors emphasize the importance of self-validation and community support as crucial factors in mitigating the risks associated with mental health crises. The film’s title itself, “What Will I Become?”, suggests a journey of self-discovery and the ongoing process of identity formation, a journey that is particularly fraught with peril for those facing societal stigma and internal conflict. The film’s release aims to contribute to a broader conversation about mental health within the LGBTQ+ community, with a specific focus on the often-underrepresented transmasculine population. The directors’ intention is to create a lasting impact by fostering a deeper societal awareness and encouraging proactive support systems. The film’s artistic choices, including its visual style and pacing, are curated to enhance the emotional resonance of the stories being shared, ensuring that the message of remembrance and the call for greater understanding are powerfully conveyed to the audience.