XY, 12min., USA
Directed by Stephen Fleet
A repressed convenience store clerk named Y and a trans cam girl named X have their lives tragically intersect at a bleak strip mall in today’s America. A country where identity is regulated and guns are not.

https://instagram.com/stephanfleet

Get to know filmmaker Stephen Fleet & Actor/Co-writer JL Perkel

1. What motivated you to make this film?

I (Stephan Fleet) had just come out as queer at the Age of 43. My life was taking a huge turn and I was doing some research into queer culture when I came across the Club Q shooting in Colorado. I started thinking about the juxtapositions of my old life as a closeted “Cis-het” white male who grew up in the 90s. All my oppression and anger. At the same time, I had made some wonderful friends in the trans community and all I saw was truth and joy. People who just wanted to live their lives. XY became a study contrasting the two. Really trying to examine just how we get to such horrific violence and what it means to the innocent.

2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?

I started developing the film in late 2023. The script came together in the first half of 2024. The missing ingredient was the great JL Perkel, who came in not just as the lead actress, but as a co-writer who helped me really dive into the trans perspective authentically. We filmed in July of 2024 and finished in January of 2025.

3. How would you describe your film in two words!?

Thought Provoking.

4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?

Filming in Los Angeles! It’s hard and very expensive!

5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?

Pleasantly surprised at everyone spot on analysis and understanding of the nuances. Their genuine appreciation for our hard work was humbling.

6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films?

JL and I both agree – when we were both we tots!

7. What film have you seen the most in your life?

For me: The Adventures of Baron Munchausen by Terry Gilliam. For JL – The Little Mermaid.

8. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career?

Networking is always top of the list!

9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experiences been working on the festival platform site?

Filmfreeway is great and easy!

10. What is your favorite meal?

Sushi for both of us!

11. What is next for you? A new film?

Definitely a new film. Right now I (Stephan) am the lead VFX Supervisor on a TV show for Amazon and we are finishing up to air in April. After that I plan on developing, drumming up the financing for, and making an indie feature. JL and I also film a lot of micro shorts!