The Aggressives
2005, U.S., 73m, DCP

Filmed over the course of five years, this bold, candid documentary follows the journeys of six masculine-presenting, genderqueer New Yorkers who defy labels in their quest to live authentically. Capturing both the struggles they face as queer people of color and the vibrant community—rooted in the Black and Latinx ball and club scenes—that sustains them, The Aggressives gives voice to these myriad and complex expressions of masculinity.

Beyond the Aggressives
2023, U.S., 80m, DCP

Daniel Peddle’s new film, Beyond the Aggressives: 25 Years Later, revisits four of the original subjects, catching us up on what’s been going on in their lives since the first film was made. In their own words, the subjects recount recent challenges and triumphs, including: what it’s like being held in ICE detention, reuniting with estranged children, undergoing medical transition, pursuing dreams in the arts, whether to start families of their own. Through the voices of today’s queer BIPOC who were deeply touched and inspired by The Aggressives, the new film also delves into how much the language, culture and visibility of the trans community has evolved and grapples with many of the complexities around gender identity and representation. All combined these intimate stories and diverse testimonials reveal compelling insights into the queer experience and offers a deeper understanding of humanity.