The documentary “Heightened Scrutiny” takes viewers on a journey with Civil Rights attorney Chase Strangio - the first openly transgender lawyer to argue in front of the Supreme Court. Strangio presented oral arguments in December of 2024, just weeks after the November 5 election, and shows the grit and tenacity it takes to present a case in front of the highest court of the land. The case U.S. v. Skrmetti, will decide the future of lifesaving gender affirming care for youth across the nation.
The director, Sam Feder set out to tell the story of how the media landscape has shifted the perception of the transgender community and how in just a short time, this shift has negatively impacted trans people. The film completed production just after the election, however, since the inauguration, it’s clear the fight is greater than imagined and will continue for a marginalized community that deserves the same protections as their fellow citizens.
It's an important film in uncertain times.
On the KPCW sun rating system, "Heightened Scrutiny" receives five out of five suns.