Privileg

This documentary tells a story about what gender reassignment can feel like. But if you know a trans person, you only know one person's perspective, not that of the entire community. From Henri Vogel's perspective, we learn, among other things: What challenges must be overcome? How do outsiders view trans* people? What do coming out and transition mean for a relationship? What resources are available in one's personal environment and in public? What influence do religious communities have on the coming out process? How does the coming out process work in reality? PRIVILEG is Ali Schmahl's first feature-length documentary and was released in Germany on March 20, 2025. The film follows Henri Vogel, a trans man from Berlin who speaks openly about his transition, his marriage to Johannes, and his commitment to the LGBTQIA+ community. In personal conversations and everyday scenes, Henri provides insights into the challenges and experiences associated with his identity. The film explores topics such as coming out, social perception, religious influences, and political conditions. The film was shown at the Kino Krokodil in Berlin and the Studio Kino in Hamburg, among other venues. Henri Vogel died in a tragic accident in South Africa in 2024, but his voice lives on through this film.