Transamérica

From Transamerica, you can feel that the producer had ambitions for an Oscar, but the relatively sober script and conventional direction thwarted these ambitions. Nevertheless, this tragicomic road movie is not a misstep - on the contrary, it is a fresh, from my point of view typically four-star film that benefits from both the attractiveness of the subject matter and decent cast, but primarily from the excellent performance of the main actress Felicity Huffman, who delivers a remarkable performance in the role of a transsexual. Perhaps the film's greatest advantage is that it doesn't push too hard, either by not using all the possibilities that the somewhat bizarre environment and lives of transsexuals can offer or by not delivering some sort of message. The film has several bitter scenes depicting misunderstandings between parents and children, several humorous lines ("This wouldn't have happened to you if you'd gone to church instead of a synagogue"), and well-selected music. Overall impression: 75%. (07.08.2008)

The story is so strong and authentic that it gave me goosebumps at times. That's what Transamerica is: authentic, compelling, and most importantly, true to life. The two main characters don't have it easy in life, and this journey through America is one they won't soon forget. The film excels in every way. Felicity Huffman's performance is a truly breathtaking example of how one actor can take ownership of an entire film. Kevin Zegers gives the performance of a lifetime and Fionnula Flanagan was properly snappy. The music was absolutely amazing, especially the final song “Travelin' Thru” by Dolly Parton and “Like a Rose” by Lucinda Williams. The script was a great blend of comedy and drama, with both components used purposefully and appropriately. In short, a film that grabs you in the opening and makes you want to run with it to the end. (18.06.2011)