Washington [USA]: Acclaimed actors Emma Thompson, Anna Friel, and Christopher Eccleston are set to appear in the upcoming film Hear Me Roar, which chronicles the true story of a transgender woman who legally challenged the British government over her marriage. The film is directed by Amy Coop, with a script co-written by barrister Ashley Bayston and lead writer Lisa McMullin, according to Deadline.
Plot and Characters
The film follows Elizabeth Bellinger, played by Rebecca Root, one of the few transgender women in Britain to marry in the 1980s. The story focuses on her battle to have her marriage to Michael Bellinger, portrayed by Christopher Eccleston, legally recognized, leading to a groundbreaking legal case.
Emma Thompson, a two-time Academy Award winner, stars as Judge Elizabeth Butler-Sloss, while Anna Friel plays barrister Ashley Bayston, who aids Bellinger in her legal fight. Julian Ovenden, known for Bridgerton, is also part of the cast.
The narrative highlights the challenges faced by Elizabeth and Michael Bellinger, navigating societal prejudice and legal obstacles during a transformative period in LGBTQ+ history.
Emotional Reactions to the Script
Emma Thompson expressed deep emotional resonance with the story after reading the script.
“I’m weeping like a baby; it’s so moving and powerful and funny. It’s a great story and script with wonderful characters—I just loved it, and it moved me deeply. I think it’s both fascinating and profoundly meaningful and essential,” Thompson shared, as quoted by Deadline.
Director Amy Coop described the project as a “privilege,” emphasizing its significance as an overlooked part of modern British history that marked a seismic shift for LGBTQ+ rights.
Production Details
The film is produced by Darren Stuart and David Nichols. With a stellar cast and a compelling story, Hear Me Roar promises to shed light on a pivotal moment in the fight for equality and recognition for transgender individuals.