The Ordeal of Bill Carney (1981)

The film portrays the difficult experience of Bill Carney, a trans man, as he faces public scrutiny and prejudice during a murder trial. It highlights the societal stigma and humiliation he endures, framing these as external injustices rather than inherent flaws of his identity, thus maintaining an empathetic stance.

The film centers on Bill Carney's shock and legal efforts to annul his marriage upon discovering his wife's transsexual identity. It primarily frames her identity as a source of deception and marital invalidity, focusing on the husband's distress and legal battle. This approach positions the transsexual character's identity as problematic and a cause of conflict, rather than exploring it with dignity or agency from her perspective.

The film portrays Bill Carney's Jehovah's Witness faith with deep sympathy and respect, focusing on his steadfast conviction in the face of societal and legal condemnation. While his religious choices lead to tragic consequences and legal challenges, the narrative frames the prosecution's attacks on his beliefs as prejudiced. This positions the audience to affirm his right to religious freedom and understand the dignity of his faith.