Born to Be 2019
"When you see yourself, who do you see?"
Born to Be (2019) shines a sensitive, behind-the-scenes light on one of the most intimate transformations imaginable.
Director: Tania Cypriano
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Born to Be (2019) about?
Born to Be takes viewers inside New York's Mount Sinai Hospital to witness the transformative power of gender-affirming surgery. The documentary follows both the patients and Dr. Jess Ting as they navigate the emotional and physical journey of transitioning, revealing stories of hope, resilience, and self-realization.
Who directed Born to Be?
The film was directed by Tania Cypriano, whose empathetic approach brings out the raw humanity of its subjects.
Who stars in Born to Be?
The documentary features Leiomy Maldonado, Garnet Rubio, Mahogany Phillips, Dr. Jess Ting, Jordan Rubenstein, and Shawn Frederick Sr., among others.
Is Born to Be (2019) worth watching?
Absolutely—it's a rare glimpse into a life-changing process that's both educational and deeply moving. Whether you're drawn to medical dramas or personal triumph stories, Born to Be offers a poignant, thought-provoking experience that lingers long after the credits roll.
How long is Born to Be?
Born to Be runs for 93 minutes.
🎥 Trailer
About Born to Be (2019) — A Moving Portrait of Transition and Identity
Born to Be (2019) shines a sensitive, behind-the-scenes light on one of the most intimate transformations imaginable. Director Tania Cypriano trains her lens on the pioneering surgical team at Mount Sinai Hospital's Center for Transgender Medicine and Surgery, capturing the raw vulnerability of patients as they step into a new chapter of their lives. With equal parts tenderness and technical awe, the documentary follows Dr. Jess Ting, a visionary surgeon whose hands have redefined countless futures, while weaving together the stories of trans individuals navigating identity, resilience, and self-discovery. The film pulses with emotional honesty, blending medical breakthroughs with deeply personal narratives that leave no room for doubt: seeing yourself clearly is the first step toward living authentically.
Documenting pivotal moments in modern trans healthcare, Born to Be becomes more than a film—it's a testament to courage, compassion, and the power of visibility. The narrative breathes life into a process often shrouded in silence, as diverse voices share their fears, hopes, and triumphs under Dr. Ting's expert care. With stunning intimacy and unflinching realism, Cypriano crafts a film that feels like a quiet revolution, proving that identity isn't just about what the world sees, but what you see when you look in the mirror.