Laurence Anyways (2012)

In the vibrant city of Montréal in 1989, we follow the intricately woven narrative of Laurence Alia and Frédérique Bellair, a compelling couple bound by their shared love and artistic endeavors. Laurence, a gifted literature professor, writer, and fledgling novelist, and Frédérique, a promising filmmaker on the precipice of her first significant venture, find their seemingly perfect relationship irrevocably altered as Laurence grapples with a profound internal conflict. He reveals a deeply concealed truth: he has forever felt like a woman trapped in a man's body and now seeks to transition gender. This intimate confession sends ripples through their lives, challenging their relationship as they navigate Laurence's transformation. The narrative spans a decade, capturing the trials and triumphs of Laurence's journey towards embracing her true self. As Laurence tests the waters of her newfound identity, she is confronted with a spectrum of reactions from those within her circle and beyond, ranging from confusion to ignorance, and even hostility. The complexity of her relationship with her parents intensifies, each parent wrestling with their own unique set of issues. At the heart of this whirlwind is Frédérique, who must reconcile her love for Laurence with her struggle to accept the man she loves becoming a woman. Her feelings ebb and flow with the passing of time, raising the question of whether she can remain by Laurence's side throughout this transformation. The external reactions she encounters add another layer of complexity, a challenge she may not be prepared for. Laurence Anyways is an exploration of identity, love, and acceptance. While Laurence's transformation may not be readily understood or accepted by all, those who truly know her continue to recognize her as Laurence, anyways. This poignant tale is not just about the metamorphosis of a man into a woman, but also the enduring power of love in the face of life-changing revelations and societal prejudices.

Laurence Anyways is a drama movie featuring Melvil Poupaud.

Laurence Anyways is currently streaming for free (ad-supported) on Kanopy and it's also available on Fandor Amazon Channel.