Synopsis
A late-blooming trans woman grapples with a life-altering, assigned-male-at-birth Trans specific dilemma and, with the help of her besties, navigates the complexities of this debacle as she determines her path on her own terms.
Director Biography – Sally Tran
Sally Tran is a writer and director from New Zealand by way of Vietnam, living in New York City. Tran’s filmmaking expertise focuses on creating unique stories through her multicultural experiences. Her film career started in New Zealand, she has directed three short films, and a feature funded through the New Zealand Film Commission, and Creative New Zealand.
Tran’s commitment to continuously developing her craft has seen her form strong networks in New Zealand, New York, and Vietnam. Her mission is to continually focus on narrative work through her unique lens.
Some of Tran’s list of residencies, scholarships and placements have been awarded from Massey University writer in residence. Asia New Zealand Foundation, for research and development for films. Script to Screen fellowship to NYC’s Killer films, and the Berlinale Talents, Berlin.
As the director of ‘Clementine,’ embarking on this journey has been profoundly enlightening for me as a cisgender woman. Being entrusted with the opportunity to delve into the intricate narrative of a transgender coming-of-age story has opened my eyes to the complexities of identity. This tale resonates deeply with me as an immigrant, as it explores themes of identity, a struggle I have personally faced. However, the exploration of one’s identity within their own body and sexuality is inherently intricate.
Contemplating the significance of a vagina to both cisgender and transgender women is a sensitive and delicate process. Much like the subject matter itself, this comedy-drama is a poignant and unique narrative. We approached the execution of the film with a highly stylized conceptual framework, juxtaposing the reality of life at home and on the streets of New York City with the symbolic representation of the vagina.
Collaborating with the writer, creator, and actor Yên Sen has allowed this story to flourish in ways I hadn’t imagined.