BBC Fresh Profile: Fox Fisher and Lewis Hancox

The film-makers behind BBC Fresh submission New Genderation talk about how they got started in documentary making.

New Genderation tells the story of Tayler a 14-year-old who was born in a female body but identifies as male.

It is part of the My Genderation series by independent documentary film-makers Fox Fisher and Lewis Hancox.

Fox describes the film project which was set up to record the experiences and perspectives of gender variance.

(Trans* is an umbrella term that refers to all identities within the gender identity spectrum.)

Watch: New Genderation on BBC Fresh

What motivated you to make this film?

“Not only are we also trans* people, we have our own experience on the other side of the camera, as documentary subjects, on My Transsexual Summer, Channel 4, 2011.

“These factors give us a very unique perspective and we are in a trusted position within a growing community.

“We work alongside many UK and global gender support groups which share our vision of changing public perceptions already clouded by existing media fabrications and negative reporting of trans* people. Although things really are changing, there is a long way to go.

“We make films independently, to humanise the process of transition, to allow the audience to empathise with trans* issues. We provide a platform to consider gender and all its constructs. We aim to provide engaging films on various aspects of being trans* and coming to terms with gender variance."

What camera did you use to shoot your film?

“Canon 7D & 5D cameras, with 30mm & 50mm fixed lenses. Audio: H4N-Zoom recorders & Rode mics. Audio Network (for royalty free background & emotive music). Adobe Premier Pro & Adobe After Effects to edit.

“After winning £5000 (from designing a T-shirt for Adobe in late 2012), I bought a camera & audio equipment, basic lighting and an external hard-drive.

“Lewis and I both have a similar set-up with enough equipment to film an interview. Together we are a strong team equally sharing the filming and editing. So far, it’s been an extremely organic process and we have achieved a lot in a short space of time."

Who/what inspires you?

“Trans* people and their friends, family and allies. I never get tired of hearing people’s stories, as trans* people are often extremely intelligent over achievers, having lived many lifetimes in one.

“Although everyone’s stories are different, often aspects of their stories echo true for my own path. It feels good to give people an authentic voice.

“There are some great music video creators out there too. We’ve been feasting on BRTHR Films which are really gritty and expertly executed."

What are your plans for the future?

“To make a feature length documentary film, as well as music videos, stop-frame animation and fictional shorts.

“We are also proud to be working with phase three of All About Trans (www.allabouttrans.com) and On Road Media, to help produce short films and provide training to trans* youth, in a UK initiative to record modern day stories of gender warriors.”