Heightened Scrutiny Debuts Frameline49’s Pay-It-Forward Initiative

Today, it was announced that Frameline49’s First Friday film will be Heightened Scrutiny. Directed by Sam Feder (Disclosure), the documentary centers on ACLU lawyer Chase Strangio, the first openly trans person to argue a case at the US Supreme Court, as he fights anti-trans laws. Featuring appearances from Oscar-nominated actor and activist Elliot Page; drag queen, artist, and activist Miss Peppermint; journalist and editor Phillip Picardi; and Emmy winner and activist Laverne Cox, who also executive produced the documentary, Heightened Scrutiny also explores how uninformed media narratives impact the public’s understanding of trans rights. 

A recent recipient of Frameline’s 2025 Completion Fund Grant, Feder’s film will play at the American Conservatory Theater’s (ACT) Toni Rembe Theater on June 20 at 7:00 PM. The screening will be followed by Frameline49’s First Friday Party at Charmaine’s, the Proper Hotel’s rooftop bar on Market Street. “This is an up-to-the-minute documentary that’s unfolding in real time. Regardless of the outcome of this case, it’s important that we have space to be in community with one another — to show that no matter what queer joy is an unstoppable force,” said Allegra Madsen, Frameline’s Executive Director.

“I first went to Frameline in the early 2000s and was immediately inspired to be a filmmaker. With this catalyst, I made my first feature in 2006, and since then my films have been indebted to the bold, sometimes risky, choices and craft that I witnessed at the festival,” said Feder. “Our goal is to use Heightened Scrutiny in solidarity with, and for coalition building among, all movements of oppressed peoples. Our team is so grateful for Frameline’s support at a time when LGBTQ+ rights are so viciously under attack.”

In addition to being a key part of the 49th iteration of the San Francisco International LGBTQ+ Film Festival’s First Friday pick, Heightened Scrutiny is the centerpiece of Frameline49’s history-making Pay-It-Forward initiative, which aims to make this salient documentary more accessible to trans and nonbinary attendees. Festival-goers who purchase tickets to Heightened Scrutiny have the opportunity to participate in the Pay-It-Forward initiative and purchase tickets on behalf of others, ensuring that no trans or nonbinary attendees will have to pay to watch the film or be in community.

“We’re asking our audience and allies to show up and take real, tangible action,” Madsen added. “Paired with the First Friday Party, Heightened Scrutiny really captures the spirit of Frameline49 by centering on both queer resilience and joy. With resources and support for LGBTQ+ people drying up, it’s time for queer people to show up for each other and, in particular, trans folks. When I think of using the past as a roadmap for navigating the challenges ahead, it’s clear that community care, in all its forms, is the answer.”

In addition to Feder’s documentary, Frameline49 will showcase a slate of yet-to-be-announced films in venues throughout San Francisco and Oakland from June 18–28. Although the rest of the lineup will be announced on May 14, tickets for Jimpa, the Opening Night film, and Heightened Scrutiny are on sale now.