The AMC Theatres chain has unexpectedly pulled screenings of "No Way Back: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care," a documentary exploring the experiences of individuals who have detransitioned. The cancellation follows a campaign by the Queer Trans Project, an advocacy group, urging AMC to remove the film.
The documentary presents the stories of five detransitioners and includes perspectives from medical professionals who raise concerns about potential harm caused by certain gender-affirming care practices. The film's producers allege that AMC yielded to pressure from the Queer Trans Project, despite the group not having viewed the entire documentary.
Laura Becker, a detransitioner featured in "No Way Back," criticized AMC's decision, arguing that suppressing the film sets a dangerous precedent for free speech. She emphasized the importance of open discussion about potentially unpopular or challenging viewpoints.
While AMC has not officially commented on the cancellation, an inside source attributed it to low ticket sales. However, the Queer Trans Project actively campaigned against the film online, encouraging individuals to contact AMC executives. Following the cancellation, the group celebrated its success.
Becker defended the documentary, asserting its focus on the need to address mental health issues before pursuing medical interventions related to gender transition. She shared her personal experience of transitioning to male as a teenager and later detransitioning at 22 after being diagnosed with PTSD.
She expressed concern about the current landscape of children's developmental health, suggesting that some young people are being rushed into medical treatments without adequate consideration of their mental health needs. Becker believes there is a concerning erosion of boundaries and common sense in this area.
While acknowledging the issue is not inherently partisan, Becker expressed gratitude for the attention conservatives are bringing to it. She emphasized that many people across the political spectrum share concerns about mental health and medical ethics in this context.
Deplorable Films, the film's distributor, released a statement standing by the filmmakers and suggesting that those protesting the film likely hadn't seen it. The film is expected to be released for streaming and on DVD.
