The most compelling and deeply moving “buddy film” of the year unfolds as a remarkable true story. In Netflix’s Will & Harper, viewers are treated to an intimate and vulnerable documentary that captures a longstanding friendship while simultaneously serving as a poignant allegory for America’s evolving understanding of transgender identity.
The experience is a true emotional roller coaster, as filmmaker Josh Greenbaum and his dedicated crew accompany the renowned actor Will Ferrell on an enlightening road trip across the United States, alongside his dear friend Harper Steele.
Will and Harper first crossed paths 30 years ago on the iconic set of Saturday Night Live. At the time, Ferrell was an aspiring young cast member, while Steele was a gifted writer contributing to the show. Ferrell, brimming with youthful energy yet nervous about his place, found an ally in Steele, who recognized his comedic potential. Their bond solidified through shared absurd humor, inventive sketch ideas, and a mutual drive to push the boundaries of comedy.
In the early chapters of Steele’s journey, she lives and identifies as male while being married to a woman, with whom she has two children. Regarded as a comedic genius among performers, Steele appeared to have a successful life externally. Internally, however, she grappled with profound suffering and confusion, ultimately embarking on a challenging path toward self-acceptance and acknowledgment of her true identity. This turmoil stemmed from a lifelong struggle to align her gender with societal expectations, despite her intrinsic awareness of who she really is.
In 2021, after years of concealing her authentic self underneath the masculine facade assigned at birth, Steele courageously reaches out to her closest friends through a series of heartfelt letters. These letters articulate her tumultuous journey for the first time, delicately revealing her transition and introducing her chosen name, Harper.
Among the recipients of these letters was Ferrell, who she considered one of her best friends and yet remained unaware of the internal battles she had been facing.
Upon grasping the profound extent of his friend’s struggles and the toll it has exacted on her life, the cisgender Ferrell is prompted to confront his understanding (or lack thereof) of her transition. Rather than shying away from this complex dialogue, he proposes an adventurous road trip across the country to discuss their evolving relationship. This journey serves both to reclaim their bond and redefine what their friendship means, while also offering Harper the opportunity to experience travel in a new light post-transition.
Fortunately, their journey proves to be both illuminating and healing. Yet, even with Ferrell’s celebrity status as a comforting shield, they cannot completely escape the realities of transphobia. The tension between hope and harsh reality serves as an honest testament to their experience. Harper’s courageous decision to share her journey with Will is a profound and unique exploration of identity that resonates deeply with audiences.
Moments of unadulterated joy and laughter abound throughout the film, contrasting with darker episodes that evoke intense empathy as viewers confront the power of truth. The film underscores that everyone has a right to embrace their authentic selves.
Whether engaging in lighthearted banter over beer choices—Steele fiercely loyal to “The Natty,” while Ferrell opts for Modelo—or confronting the intricacies that define love and acceptance, Will & Harper emerges as an extraordinary celebration of humanity in both concept and execution, leaving a lasting impression that I wholeheartedly encourage you to witness.
**Interview with Josh Greenbaum, Director of *Will & Harper***
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Josh! *Will & Harper* has been described as one of the most compelling buddy films of the year. What inspired you to tell this story?
**Josh Greenbaum:** Thank you for having me! The inspiration came from the incredible friendship that Will and Harper share, which has evolved over three decades. Their journey, particularly Harper’s transition and self-discovery, is both deeply personal and universally relatable. It sheds light on the evolving understanding of gender identity in America, and I felt it was a story that needed to be told.
**Interviewer:** That’s a powerful motivation. Can you share how you approached the documentary’s emotional depth, especially in capturing Harper’s struggles?
**Josh Greenbaum:** Absolutely. We aimed to create an environment where both Will and Harper felt comfortable being completely authentic. The road trip format allowed us to explore their conversations organically. We used personal letters Harper wrote to her friends, which laid out her journey and struggles in her own words. This approach not only provided depth but also allowed viewers to connect with Harper on a human level.
**Interviewer:** It sounds like a moving experience for everyone involved. What role did humor play in this documentary, given both Will and Harper’s backgrounds in comedy?
**Josh Greenbaum:** Humor is essential! It’s what initially brought Will and Harper together and continues to be a cornerstone of their friendship. We interwove humor throughout the documentary to highlight not just their comedic talents but also how laughter can serve as a valuable tool for coping with life’s challenges. It’s a balance of lightness and gravity that reflects their true dynamic.
**Interviewer:** The friendship forged on *Saturday Night Live* is fascinating. How did their history contribute to the storytelling?
**Josh Greenbaum:** Their history is a vital thread in the narrative. Since they first met three decades ago, their comedic partnership has flourished alongside their personal journeys. Capturing that history allowed us to show the evolution of their bond—one that has weathered challenges and transformed as they both grew. It adds layers to their current relationship and makes the documentary resonate more deeply.
**Interviewer:** What do you hope viewers take away from *Will & Harper*?
**Josh Greenbaum:** I hope viewers walk away with a deeper understanding of friendship, acceptance, and the importance of being true to oneself. Harper’s journey is just one of many, but it’s a testament to the courage it takes to live authentically. I want people to feel inspired to support one another, regardless of the paths they choose.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Josh. It sounds like *Will & Harper* is not just a film about friendship, but also a much-needed conversation starter about identity and acceptance.
**Josh Greenbaum:** Exactly! Thank you for having me, and I hope everyone enjoys the film.
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This interview gives an overview of the documentary’s themes while providing insight into both the creative process and the personal journeys of the individuals involved.
