So much of transgender representation on screen is about coming out. A trans person (usually the only trans character in the story) realizes they are trans, and then the plot becomes about seeking acceptance from other (cisgender) people. As a filmmaker, Ari is tired of this singular narrative. While coming out is important in any trans person’s life, it’s importance can only exist because of what comes afterward: Trans people getting to live life as their correct gender.

As a filmmaker, Ari seeks to tell stories of trans people who have come out and are living their lives. Whether those stories are joyful, or heartbreaking, or aggravating, the point is to show that trans people can have the full range of human experiences. Whether the characters’ transness is pivotal to the story, or whether the actors just happen to be trans, Ari believes it’s important to show that this community does more than just come out or suffer tragic fates. Ari is trying to create the representation they so desperately wish they were seeing in Hollywood.