We See Each Other: A Black, Trans Journey Through TV and Film

We See Each Other: A Black, Trans Journey Through TV and Film by Tre'vell Anderson is both a personal story of their coming to understand who they are as well as a very good example of how to both appreciate and critique popular culture.

I hope that people who might feel isolated or questioning about who they are will read this book. It will not only show them that no one's alone in the world, even at those times when it most feels like it, but that even the cultural images we see don't have to be, and shouldn't be, taken at face value.

It is in how Anderson looks back at the history of popular culture that anyone who studies it, formally or informally, can learn some valuable lessons. One of the most difficult things I found when I was show more actively studying and teaching in WGS was in understanding the importance of both keeping the texts we analyze in their societal context while also critiquing their place in our time. This is, basically, the difference between criticizing and critiquing. It is very easy, and largely pointless, to criticize older texts for things that the creators perhaps didn't even have the words or concepts to do differently. Critiquing allows one to give a nod to how it seemed at the time while also pointing out where we can now understand how it fell short by our current standards. It is grappling with these problematic texts, what Anderson calls "problemasia" with the texts, where we can both better understand the past and make strides for a better future.

In addition to the serious elements of the book, it is also fun to read. You will want to go back and revisit some of these works with a new perspective or take in some works you may never have seen. Most important, I think, is how we can then actively engage any film or TV we view from now on.

Highly recommended for anyone with an interest in the intersection of art and society, even if your main interest isn't Black and/or trans.

Reviewed from a copy made available by the publisher via NetGalley. show less

I’ve listened to the author previously on a few podcasts, and this read was recommended on one of my faves. I really enjoyed hearing their story and especially learning more about all the films and shows (and people) I wasn’t familiar with; they do a wonderful job breaking down the history and all the good and bad represented in these works as well.