Susan Sarandon, Naomi Watts And Elle Fanning Grapple With Trans Identity In "3 Generations"
In 3 Generations, Susan Sarandon and Naomi Watts play a grandmother and mother who must learn to adapt when Watts' child Ramona, played by Elle Fanning, comes out as a trans man. The film also stars Tate Donovan as Ray's absentee father, Craig.
The Weinstein Company announced today the film is coming to theaters on May 5.
Director Gaby Dellal defended casting Fanning, a cisgender woman, in the title role by explaining Ray has not yet transitioned. "The part is a girl," she told Refinery 29, "and she is a girl who is presenting in a very ineffectual way as a boy." Some members of the transgender community didn't find that a comforting explanation.
3 Generations was completed in 2015, and screened at the Toronto International Film Festival as About Ray that September. But it was pulled from a planned September 18, 2015 release date after a lukewarm response. In April 2016, Dellal indicated she was reediting the film.
"Harvey [Weinstein]’s enthusiasm and support has allowed us to release this poignant film at a time when we all need to believe in our collective strength," Dellal said in a statement. "Throughout making this film I have met loving families, fearless transgender youth and women who have fought for gender equality for decades. This film, both heart-warming and heart wrenching, is for them.”
"This story loudly and bravely advocates for acceptance, both of others and of oneself," added Watts, who also executive produces. "It’s a message we all believe in and are all incredibly proud to share this story with audiences, now more than ever.”