‘Heightened Scrutiny’ Review: A Transgender Attorney Heads to the Supreme Court in an Emotional and Informative Doc

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As a movie enthusiast, I initially found “Heightened Scrutiny” by Sam Feder to be reminiscent of other documentaries with its straightforward interview style and blend of graphics and B-roll footage. But as I delved deeper, it became clear that this familiar approach was meticulously crafted, elevating the traditional form and delivering a potent impact.

The documentary focuses on Chase Strangio, an attorney at the ACLU, as he gears up to be the first transgender individual to present arguments before the Supreme Court. Although this distinction is significant when compared to other notable civil rights milestones, it pales in comparison to the importance of the case itself. The case, United States v. Skrmetti, was ongoing during the film’s premiere at Sundance and aims to decide whether Tennessee’s ban on hormone therapy and puberty blockers for transgender youth infringes upon the Fourteenth Amendment’s Equal Protection Clause.

For those unfamiliar with the details, Strangio presents compelling points during his on-camera discussions. However, “Heightened Scrutiny” goes beyond just legal terminology. It seems that Feder understands that the factors influencing such a decision extend far beyond constitutional phrases, and thus, targets the foundational blocks of transphobic bias in media – a topic similar to Feder’s earlier work, “Disclosure,” which examined trans films in the Hollywood industry. In this manner, the movie assumes an essayistic style, scrutinizing major news outlets like The New York Times and The Atlantic with astonishing detail and rigor.

The arguments presented are equally scholarly and emotionally charged. Strangio is accompanied by a group of trans activists, including well-known figures such as Elliot Page, and a vocal 12-year-old named Mila. They not only address the everyday prejudices and hypocrisies of anti-trans sentiments but also commonplace situations. The film’s primary strategy for persuasion lies in its portrayal of the ordinary, relatable nature of its subjects, as seen through scenes like family dinners featuring Mila, following Strangio home, observing his fashion choices, and affectionately showcasing his cat.

In my opinion, what truly distinguishes “Heightened Scrutiny” from other straightforward documentaries lies in its deliberate pace. Despite being only 89 minutes long, it is meticulously crafted, revealing a wealth of personal and practical insights at every turn. Unlike many documentaries that rely on brief expert testimonials, Feder’s film sets itself apart by ensuring that each interviewee – be they lawyers, journalists, parents of trans children, or celebrities like Peppermint and Laverne Cox – are not mere talking heads. Instead, these individuals are skillfully woven into the narrative as fully-realized characters, with their inner lives and experiences taking center stage alongside their expertise.

In my perspective, this film masterfully combines the intellectual and emotional aspects of its subject matter, refusing to trivialise people’s real lives as mere puzzles to solve. “Heightened Scrutiny,” much like Strangio at its core, doesn’t just construct legal arguments; it fosters a profound sense of camaraderie among its trans characters, expanding the stakes for trans lives and America as a whole in the coming years. The film subtly yet powerfully conveys a shared understanding between us all, and, without sounding overly sentimental, stirs a deep affection for our fellow humans – a sentiment that director Feder captures beautifully.

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2025-01-29 00:16