Siobhan McCarthy’s “She’s The He” Redefines Queer Comedy With Trans-Led Cast and Crew

A New Era in Queer Cinema

Siobhan McCarthy’s “She’s The He” is making waves across film festivals and LGBTQ+ circles, heralding a shift in how trans and nonbinary stories are told on screen. This teen comedy, which premiered at South by Southwest (SXSW) in March 2025, draws on the classic high school hijinks of ‘90s and 2000s comedies while injecting them with a modern, unapologetically queer spirit. The film’s central narrative—a pair of high school friends pretending to be trans women to dodge rumors and access girls-only spaces—quickly evolves into a nuanced coming-of-age story when one protagonist realizes she truly is transgender.

Authentic Representation on and off Screen

What sets “She’s The He” apart is its commitment to authentic representation. McCarthy assembled a cast and crew comprised almost entirely of transgender, nonbinary, and queer individuals—including trans actors in roles not typically offered to them. Emmet Preciado, a trans man, plays the school jock—a rare example of a trans actor taking on a traditionally cisgender role outside the confines of trans-specific narratives. This casting choice was intentional, with McCarthy noting the importance of showcasing the versatility and depth of transgender actors in mainstream genres.

The film’s creative process was notably swift—McCarthy wrote the script in just a few days, and the entire production wrapped in less than a year. The urgency stemmed from a desire to capture a moment before industry hesitance and political backlash made such projects harder to greenlight. “If we had tried this even a year later, it would never have happened,” McCarthy explained, citing the increasing pressure and fear surrounding trans visibility in entertainment.

Subverting Tropes and Centering Trans Joy

“She’s The He” is self-aware, playing with and ultimately dismantling problematic tropes that have long plagued teen comedies—such as cisgender men pretending to be trans women for comedic or predatory gain. The film’s early setup risks invoking transphobic stereotypes, but a pivotal twist reframes the narrative, as Ethan (Misha Osherovich) discovers her true identity as a trans woman. This revelation shifts the focus from farce to a heartfelt exploration of gender identity, friendship, and self-acceptance.

The film’s tone balances camp and sincerity, with familiar high school archetypes—jocks, outcasts, and well-meaning teachers—recast through a queer-positive lens. Characters like Forest (Tatiana Rigsby), a sarcastic nonbinary lesbian, provide comedic relief and authentic representation, reflecting the diversity of contemporary queer youth.

Impact and Reception

“She’s The He” has been praised for its refreshing approach to LGBTQ+ storytelling, speaking directly to both trans and cis audiences in a language that resonates with today’s youth. Critics have lauded the film’s humor, energy, and heartfelt message, describing it as “a refreshing, authentic comedy that’s talking to trans and cis kids alike in a language they’ll immediately recognize as their own” (Jacob Oller, AV Club, cited at SIFF).

The film’s festival circuit success—including screenings at SXSW and the Seattle International Film Festival—demonstrates growing demand for trans-led projects that move beyond trauma and stereotypes to celebrate trans joy and resilience. Audiences have responded enthusiastically, with many noting the cathartic experience of seeing trans actors in a variety of roles, and the film’s ability to foster empathy and understanding.

Industry and Social Context

“She’s The He” arrives at a time when political debates about transgender rights—especially around issues such as bathroom access—are increasingly polarized. McCarthy’s film responds to these challenges with humor and compassion, presenting a narrative that counters fearmongering and affirms the lived experiences of transgender people. The director’s decision to cast and crew trans individuals in all aspects of production not only increases visibility but also provides opportunities for behind-the-scenes talent.

By centering trans joy and self-discovery, “She’s The He” helps to redefine what teen comedies can be, offering a blueprint for inclusive filmmaking that celebrates the full spectrum of LGBTQ+ identities.

Looking Ahead

With its blend of sharp wit, inclusive casting, and timely themes, “She’s The He” stands as a landmark in trans-led media. As industry leaders and audiences continue to call for greater diversity, McCarthy’s film proves that authentic representation is not only possible, but also essential for the future of queer storytelling.