Introduction:
Sundance Film Festival is not known for its standing ovations, but the premiere of “Will & Harper” changed that. This heartwarming and funny documentary about Will Ferrell’s road trip with his longtime friend, Harper Steel, who transitioned at the age of 61, left the audience moved and applauding at the Eccles Theatre.
A Journey of Friendship and Self-Discovery
Unconventional Beginnings
Ferrell, known for his comedic roles in movies like “Elf” and “Anchorman,” greeted the packed house at Sundance with astonishment. He humorously exclaimed, “Look at this, and this is for a documentary! Wow!” Ferrell didn’t expect such a reception, assuming they would screen their film in someone’s garage at 10 a.m.
From Coast to Coast
“Will & Harper” chronicles their 17-day cross-country journey from New York to California. Along the way, they stop at basketball games, dive bars, Las Vegas restaurants, and places where Steel hopes to find comfort since coming out as a trans woman in 2022.
A Reunion with “SNL” Family
As former colleagues on “Saturday Night Live” in the ’90s, Ferrell and Steel’s journey is filled with encounters with other “SNL” veterans, including Tina Fey, Kristen Wiig, and Molly Shannon. These familiar faces play crucial roles in Steel’s transition, as they represent a chosen family.
Emotions Unleashed
Heartfelt Connections
Director Josh Greenbaum, known for his quirky comedies, expressed his gratitude during a post-screening Q&A. Fighting back tears, he praised the love and support between Ferrell and Steel, stating, “The love these two friends have for one another fills me up.”
Genuine and Emotional
Despite his comedic background, Ferrell revealed a raw and vulnerable side in the documentary. Throughout the film, Ferrell’s conversations with Steel brought him to tears multiple times. He explained his commitment to the project, saying, “I felt like if we were going to create this with integrity, I owed it to Harper to be emotionally available.”
Powerful Timeliness
Steel was inspired to make this documentary during a challenging time for LGBTQ rights in the U.S. She jokingly admitted, “I could abuse my friendship with a movie star to shed light on a broader audience. I still don’t think Will knows what he did.”
An Unforgettable Exploration
A Unique Approach
Greenbaum, known for his unconventional storytelling, approached “Will & Harper” with care and sensitivity. The documentary balances serious and emotional conversations about transgender experiences with lighter moments involving Pringles, wacky costumes, and a memorable trip to Dunkin Donuts.
A Personal Education
Ferrell, in an interview with Variety before the premiere, admitted his initial ignorance about the trans community. He emphasized the importance of cisgender individuals listening, learning, and being supportive allies. “This is a chance for us in the cis community to ask questions and discuss this journey,” Ferrell stated.
“Will & Harper” is more than just a documentary. It’s an intimate portrayal of friendship, self-discovery, and the power of acceptance. With its heartfelt moments and genuine storytelling, this film will leave a lasting impact. For more information about “Will & Harper” and other engaging stories, visit F5mag.com.
Source link: Variety