Ed Wood, Jr. Centennial: An American Cinematheque Retrospective - Glen Or Glenda

Thoughtful, surreal, and daring, GLEN OR GLENDA is the infamous directorial debut from Ed Wood, Jr. (PLAN 9 FROM OUTER SPACE). Glen (played by Ed himself) has a secret which could destroy a happily-ever-after with his lady, for how can she handle another woman in Glen’s life? And what will she do when she finds out Glen is the other woman? And what in the world is Bela Lugosi going on about when he says, “PULL THE STRINGS?!” As we re-examine our cinematic past, GLEN OR GLENDA emerges as the world’s first trans-centric movie—though as it predates contemporary terminology, its characters are not technically definied within the movie as “trans.” GLEN OR GLENDA is not only rock-solid history—it’s deeply touching as well.

FORMAT: DCP

DISTRIBUTOR: AGFA

COUNTRY: USA

The American Cinematheque is thrilled to celebrate the idiosyncratic work of pulp filmmaker Ed Wood, Jr. in honor of the trailblazer’s centennial. Once deemed “The Worst Director of All Time” due to his films’ technical flaws, crude visual effects, illogical dialogue, and his campy sensibilities, Wood’s contributions to cinema have undergone a more favorable reevaluation. Vastly ahead of his time regarding queer representation and confronting taboo subject matter of the era, Ed Wood, Jr. has been a true beacon of inspiration for generations of outsiders, dreamers, and artists. Wood was an exemplar of ambition and passion, and what he lacked in resources he made up for with his drive, ingenuity, and vision.

Cost: $8.00 (member); $13.00 (general admission)