Exploring Trans Themes and Identity in “I Saw the TV Glow” with Director Jane Schoenbrun

Title: Director Jane Schoenbrun Discusses Trans Themes in New Film “I Saw the TV Glow”

On April 3, director Jane Schoenbrun took to Twitter to share their interest in directing an Agent Smith origin story, sparking a conversation about trans themes in the iconic “Matrix” franchise. Schoenbrun, who identifies as nonbinary, sees parallels between the feeling of unreality in “The Matrix” and the experience of being trans in the world.

Schoenbrun’s latest film, “I Saw the TV Glow,” explores similar themes through the story of a teenager named Owen who is grappling with a burgeoning trans identity. The film follows Owen as he becomes obsessed with a fantasy TV series called “The Pink Opaque,” which serves as a metaphor for his own journey of self-discovery.

In a recent interview, Schoenbrun discussed the process of making the film and the decision to keep Owen’s gender identity ambiguous. They emphasized the importance of portraying trans experiences in a nuanced and internalized way, rather than relying on external markers.

The film has been well-received by trans audiences, who have connected with its themes of self-discovery and liberation. Schoenbrun’s approach to storytelling and representation has sparked important conversations about the intersection of identity and media.

As Schoenbrun continues to explore these themes in their work, they hope to challenge traditional narratives and offer a more authentic portrayal of trans experiences on screen. “I Saw the TV Glow” is now playing in theaters in Los Angeles and New York, with an expansion planned in the coming weeks.