Dawn, Her Dad & the Tractor

This is a heart-warming and uplifting film. While it is definitely not a comedy, calling it a drama makes it sound heavier than it actually is. I shed a few tears in spots, but despite the serious subject matter (death of a loved one, and a family member who comes out as trans), it is actually a feel-good, uplifting story, filled with gentle humour and loving relationships. All of the acting is good, but Rob Wells really surprised me with his nuanced portrayal of the dad as a decent guy who isn't good at dealing with emotions. Loved the songs by Rose Cousins, and the beautiful Nova Scotia scenery.

Shelley Thompson is such an incredible play wright and creative. There's not doubt in me that so much love and care was poured into this film. Having more trans representation in theater is so important. Support Maritime film makers and local talent!

So good to have a movie that is inspiring and forgiving and family orientated. The story is real and shows how we can be compassionate. It is entertaining and a movie that is accessible to talk to tour kids about trans folks.

In an age when so many movies are cast with action heroes and enough pyrotechnics to begin a war, this is the perfect family and classroom movie for several reasons. First, it's difficult for most parents to introduce sensitive topics in a family conversation. Often teens cringe when they feel their parents are trying to enter the domain of 'cool' or 'with it'. But this movie leaves so many doors open which naturally invite questions and thoughtful responses. Why did Dawn leave her family? Why was her father uncomfortable with her return? Who were the 'helpers' in her old home town and who were the people that were so deeply mired in the past that all they could do was try to hurt her? What was Dawn's (late) mother like? What would you say to Dawn if you met her? What would you say to a friend or school acquaintance who undertook the same transition as Dawn? I could go on . . . You know what they say: 'old teachers never die, they just lose their class'. But if I were still in the classroom today I would use this film as a teaching tool to help young people understand that bravery and being true to oneself are not characteristics unique to action figures.

It has been amazing to be at several showings of this film and hear the reaction from trans folks and their family members (bio and chosen). Dawn really touches peoples hearts, and opens doors for conversations which can be incredibly difficult to find your way into. If you're looking for a heartwarming, tear jerking, thought provoking, and hope-filled film, this is it!! Also, the music by Rose Cousins, Breagh Isabel, and Scott MacMillan is STUNNING !