HEIGHTENED SCRUTINY (Centerpiece)

New York Premiere
From the intrepid filmmakers behind the groundbreaking DISCLOSURE, this riveting documentary traces the arc of an epic legal battle alongside a revealing breakdown of anti-trans mainstream media bias. Follow Queens-based ACLU attorney, father, and cat lover Chase Strangio – the first out trans person to argue a case before the U.S. Supreme Court – as he strategizes to fight a 2023 Tennessee state law banning gender-affirming medical care for transgender youth, with a consequential decision expected in June 2025.

Resistance and logic are key as veteran journalists and activists – along with Strangio – lucidly dismantle distorted, panic-inducing rhetoric and collectively respond to the shocking complicity hard-won trans rights being rolled back. HEIGHTENED SCRUTINY compelling captures the timely fight against anti-trans legislation all the way to the steps of the U.S. Supreme Court and provides a powerful call to action for bodily autonomy, civil rights, and truth.

Screening will be followed by an extended filmmaker Q&A

Part of NewFest Pride

Sam Feder

Amy Scholder, Sam Feder, Paola Mendoza

Chase Strangio, Laverne Cox, Elliot Page, Miss Peppermint, Julie Hollar, Morgan D. Givens, Ari Drennen, Gina Chua, Jelani Cobb, Lydia Polgreen, Tre'vell Anderson