Be Like Others is an award-winning documentary film written and directed by Tanaz Eshaghian that takes a close look at the lives of transsexuals in Iran. Through interviews with patients at a Tehran clinic, the film sheds light on issues of gender identity, sexuality, and cultural expectations.
The film’s greatest strength lies in its focus on individual stories. By exploring experiences from different perspectives, Be Like Others gives viewers an intimate insight into Iranian society. We witness the struggles of those who are marginalized by their families and communities due to their gender identity. We also get to witness them finding respite in the help they receive at the Tehran clinic, which provides medical transitioning services as well as psychological support for transgender individuals.
For many people around the world, Be Like Others will be an eye-opening experience. It offers a unique understanding of what it means to be transgender in Iran – one of the most socially conservative countries in the world. By tackling topics such as relationships, marriage, and parenting from the perspective of trans people living in Iran, Be Like Others reveals a side of this country that is rarely seen.
So if you’re looking for thought-provoking cinema that shines a light on LGBT issues in Iran – then Be Like Others should definitely be
