Watch Finding Kim

Finding Kim is a heartfelt documentary film that tells the story of a transgender woman named Kim Byford and her journey towards self-discovery, self-acceptance, and finding her true purpose in life. The movie is directed by Aaron Bear and features interviews with Kim herself, as well as other prominent members of the transgender community, including Buck Angel and Calpernia Addams.

The film chronicles Kim's life from childhood to present day, exploring her struggles with gender identity and the obstacles she faced along the way. Growing up in Texas in the 1980s, Kim was constantly reminded of the binary stereotypes surrounding gender roles and was forced to suppress her true self in order to fit in. As a young adult, she began to explore her gender identity more openly, eventually transitioning and moving to Chicago to start a new life.

Throughout the film, we see Kim confront various challenges, both external and internal. She struggles with finding meaningful employment, forging healthy relationships, and overcoming internalized shame and self-doubt. Despite these challenges, Kim remains resilient, committed to living her life authentically, and determined to carve out a place for herself in a world that often feels unwelcoming and unforgiving.

One of the most powerful aspects of Finding Kim is its emphasis on community and the power of supportive networks. Throughout the film, we see Kim connect with other transgender individuals, attending support groups and participating in activism. These connections provide her with a sense of belonging and validation, giving her the courage to continue seeking her true purpose in life.

The film also touches on the intersectionality of Kim's experience, exploring the ways in which her identity as a transgender woman intersects with her other identities and experiences. For example, we learn that she is a survivor of sexual assault, and see how this trauma has impacted her journey towards self-acceptance. We also see her grappling with issues of race, class, and social inequality.

As the film progresses, we see Kim become more confident and empowered, finding her voice and taking on new challenges. She begins performing drag, ultimately winning a major contest and gaining recognition as a talented artist. She also becomes a mentor and role model for other transgender individuals, using her story to inspire others to embrace their true selves and live authentically.

One of the strengths of Finding Kim is its ability to balance the personal and the political. While the film is primarily about one person's journey, it also situates this journey within a broader social and political context, shining a light on the systemic barriers that transgender individuals face. Through interviews with experts and activists, the film educates viewers about the social, legal, and healthcare issues facing the transgender community, while also celebrating their resilience and strength.

Overall, Finding Kim is a moving and inspiring film that offers a powerful look into the transgender experience. Through Kim's story, viewers gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of gender identity and the challenges faced by transgender individuals. At the same time, the film offers a message of hope and empowerment, celebrating the resilience and strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

Finding Kim is a 2017 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 22 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.4.