Transparent actor Trace Lysette brings some of her own experiences as a trans woman trying to reconnect with family in Andrea Pallaoro’s latest drama, Monica, which had its world premiere at the Venice Film Festival last year. The film is finally due to hit theaters in May from IFC Films.
Lysette plays a Los Angeles woman who returns to her home in the midwest to care for her ailing mother, played by Patricia Clarkson. It is the woman’s first time back home since being rejected by her mom when transitioning.
While speaking at various events, Lysette has talked about being estranged from her own family for a time during the transition phase. Lysette has been a vocal champion for better treatment by Hollywood of the trans community.
Monica also stars Emily Browning (in her first role since 2017’s Golden Exits), Adriana Barraza (Blue Beetle), and Joshua Close.
IFC will release Monica into theaters on May 12th.
MONICA is an intimate portrait of a woman who returns home after a long absence to confront the wounds of her past. Reconnecting with her mother and the rest of her family for the first time since leaving as a teenager, Monica embarks on a path of healing and acceptance. The film delves into Monica’s internal world and state of mind, her pain and fears, her needs and desires, to explore the universal themes of abandonment and forgiveness.
