Watch Transfixed

Transfixed is a 2014 Canadian independent drama film that tells the story of the lives of two people, Martine Stonehouse and John Gelmon, who hail from vastly different backgrounds but are united by one thing - the desire for self-expression. The movie is centered around their fascinating lives, which have been spent pushing boundaries and breaking conventions.

Martine Stonehouse, a young transgender woman, is a prominent figure in the art scene of Vancouver, Canada. She is a sought-after performer and multimedia artist, whose work explores themes of gender, identity, and sexuality. Her performances often involve nudity, provocative imagery, and personal stories. Martine is a trailblazer in her field, redefining the boundaries of what it means to be a transgender artist.

On the other hand, John Gelmon is a retired truck driver in his 60s, who lives in the countryside of British Columbia. Despite his unconventional background, John is also an artist and a self-proclaimed nudist. His art revolves around his own body, which he sees as a work of art, and his home studio is filled with paintings, sculptures, and photographs of his naked form.

Transfixed is a character-driven film that provides a deep and intimate look into the lives of these two artists, as well as the struggles they face in their personal and professional lives. Martine and John's stories are intertwined throughout the movie, as they are both linked by their shared experience of being marginalized in society and finding solace in their art.

The film primarily follows Martine, who is shown to be a complex and multifaceted character. She is not just a transgender woman but also a daughter, a performer, a lover, and a friend. Through interviews and footage of her performances, the audience gets to see her creative process and the inspiration behind her work. Transfixed also sheds light on the difficult journey that Martine has had to endure, from being bullied in school to struggling with addiction and homelessness. She speaks candidly about the impact that her gender identity has had on her life, both positive and negative.

John's portrayal in the movie is equally compelling, although his screen time is comparatively less. He is a fascinating figure, living an alternative lifestyle that may seem strange to some, but is completely authentic to him. The audience gets to see him engaging in philosophical discussions with other artists, decorating his naked body with paint, and attending nudist events in the countryside. John's art is shown to be a form of self-expression and rebellion against society's idea of what is proper and acceptable.

The film's overall mood is somber and introspective, with a strong sense of authenticity and vulnerability. The scenes intercut between Martine and John's different lives, giving the audience a glimpse into the stark contrasts between them. The cinematography is beautiful, with stunning shots of Vancouver's skyline, the Canadian wilderness, and the countryside. The music is minimalistic, adding to the understated tone of the movie.

What makes Transfixed a unique and compelling film is its willingness to explore the inner world of its subjects. The movie peels back the layers of Martine and John's lives, revealing their hopes, fears, and dreams. The audience is allowed to get close to them, without judgement or sensationalism. The result is a poignant and thought-provoking portrait of two artists, who have found ways to express themselves in spite of society's limitations.

In conclusion, Transfixed is a powerful and moving film that explores themes of identity, self-expression, and acceptance. Martine Stonehouse and John Gelmon are fascinating subjects, with rich and complex stories that are portrayed with sensitivity and respect. The film is a testament to the human spirit, and the power of art to transcend borders and limitations. It is a must-watch for anyone who values authenticity, creativity, and empathy.

Transfixed is a 2017 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 14 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.8.