Documentary following Laurence Philomène captures the vibrant palette of their work – and the shadows cast over it by prejudice

For non-binary trans photographer Laurence Philomène, art, life and identity are intimately entwined. Though drawing from art history, their photographs strike a distinctive note with their pastel colours; capturing queer subjects, including Philomène themself, in restful poses, these portraits bloom in soft hues of pink, purple, blue – the full rainbow. This style seems to seep into Catherine Legault’s intimate documentary, which captures not only the artist’s creative process but also their daily life with vibrancy.

Philomène’s home, just like their work, bursts with colour. As they prepare their first book, Puberty, which documents their transition, their home doubles as a photography studio. Philomène takes pictures of ordinary rituals, from taking their daily hormone shots to a gentle cuddle with their partner in bed. At a time when non-conforming gender expression is being policed, censored and even banned, these tableaux of trans life are more radical than ever. In contrast to conservative rhetoric demonising trans people, Philomène chooses to focus on moments of joy, love and respite.