Reflex on the Screen

Over a period of eight years, the camera accompanies Stefano on his journey toward gender reassignment. The Italian protagonist speaks openly about his initial experiences, medical procedures, and social challenges. Earlier interviews document his struggle with identity, self-image, and hormonal changes. Despite growing visibility in the media and on social networks, he later distances himself from parts of the LGBT community, especially from superficial activism and personal attacks. The tension between individual transformation and public perception is captured in cinematic images. Over the course of the documentary, a multi-layered portrait emerges that explores questions of authenticity, self-determination, and public image. Director Matteo Faccenda eschews staging in favor of continuous observation, which creates a haunting closeness to the protagonist. REFLEX ON THE SCREEN was awarded the Jury Prize for Best Documentary at the VISIONI DAL MONDO – International Documentary Film Festival in Milan in 2021. The production uses documentary material, archive footage, and personal interviews to reconstruct an intimate chronicle of gender transition. Reflection on media images, trans identity, and representation is at the heart of this independent film. The cinematic portrayal of trans masculinity not only presents biographical facts, but also sheds light on the social dynamics that trans people encounter in public.