Kristiene Clarke

The film explores stigma's surrounding transgender individuals as well as documenting their struggle to be considered 'normal' people.[1] The films delves into the cultural and political difficulties of transgender issues within society. It does this by questioning how gender was perceived at the time, as well as showing the process of being transgender after having surgery. The narrative stemmed from Clarke's anger towards the press' interest to know details surrounding Adèle Anderson's sexuality.[1] Clarke says she decided on this title for the documentary in order to "...ridicule the tabloid headlines at the time.".[2]

Clarke said that in the process of making the film and working with the cast that she felt encouraged to reflect upon her own transgender experience and the hardship she faced.[1]

This is a mid-length film documenting comedian, Sandra Bernhard which explores various topics such as her sexuality and shows footage of her shoots for Playboy.[9] Clarke showcases the entertainer by giving the audience the chance to "see the real woman behind the fabulous image".[10] In the film Bernhard, her mother, Jeanette,[9] and her aunt and uncle are interviewed.[5] The film was originally made to be aired on the BBC for the documentary series Arena (TV series) however it was taken from the line-up that year.[9]

Clarke holds an academic position at the University of Kent teaching 'moving image production',[11] in addition to this she is a mentor at Warnborough College.[3][11] Clarke has also been a guest lecturer at many other academic institutions such as University of Manchester, University of London, Queen Mary University of London, Royal Holloway, University of London, and London School of Economics. Furthermore, Clarke also delivers masterclasses in cultural institutions worldwide.[2]