Educational Media Reviews Online

Russell Sheaffer’s Masculinity/Femininity ostensibly tackles the important question of gender identity in the modern age. Through interviews and testimonial that Sheaffer coyly tells us may or may not be scripted, Sheaffer asks his panel of artists, filmmakers, and activists a series of questions about masculinity. The questions, Sheaffer tells us, came from an interview in a “men’s magazine” featuring James Franco. Sheaffer expands upon the questions to include womanhood. What follows is a series pieces devised by both Sheaffer and his interviewees, some testimonial, some performance pieces, all geared towards an examination of gender.

The question is probably a good one; the answer here though is indecipherable. Filmed in grainy Super 8 and oddly edited, the film offers little concrete examination of the issue. There are some charming narratives, some erudite guests, and more than a few uncomfortable moments (one including brief, unessential nudity). The central narrative meanders, sometimes devolving into inane conversations between the filmmakers themselves regarding the antiquated technology they have, for some reason, decided to use. The accompanying screenplay offers little illumination on the overall point of the film. It is unclear as to whom this film is directed, as it seems unlikely one would walk away with more insight regarding gender identity or alternative lifestyles. Ultimately, self-indulgent and unenlightening.