Watch In a Year of 13 Moons

In a Year of 13 Moons is a 1978 German film directed by Rainer Werner Fassbinder. The movie tells the story of a trans woman named Erwin/Elvira Weisshaupt, played by Volker Spengler, who is struggling with the aftermath of a failed relationship with a man named Anton Saitz, played by Gottfried John. We first meet Erwin/Elvira as a young man who is in love with Anton. However, Anton is abusive towards Erwin/Elvira, and eventually leaves her for a woman. Devastated, Erwin/Elvira undergoes gender reassignment surgery and becomes Elvira.

The film takes place over the course of a year, with each month represented by a chapter. We see Elvira struggling to come to terms with her new identity and the rejection she has faced from Anton. She embarks on a series of relationships, including with a gay man named Christoph, played by Wolfgang Schenck, and a married man named Zora, played by Ingrid Caven.

Throughout the film, Fassbinder explores themes of alienation, identity, and love. Elvira's journey is marked by intense loneliness and a sense of disconnect from the world around her. She is constantly searching for love and acceptance, but finds only pain and rejection.

The film is shot in Fassbinder's signature style, using long takes, stark lighting, and intense performances from the actors. Volker Spengler gives a powerful and heartfelt performance as Elvira, conveying both the character's vulnerability and her resilience.

The movie also features a haunting score by Peer Raben, which adds to the sense of melancholy and isolation that pervades the story.

In a Year of 13 Moons is not an easy film to watch. It deals with heavy subject matter and can be emotionally gruelling at times. But it is a deeply moving and thought-provoking work of art that explores important themes of gender, identity, and human connection. It is a testament to Fassbinder's talent as a filmmaker and Volker Spengler's talent as an actor that this film still resonates with audiences today.