Elliot Page Candid About How Playing Trans Man In ‘Close To You’ Helped Him Heal And Embrace His True Self

Elliot Page’s return to the big screen is nothing short of extraordinary. In his first film playing a trans man, “Close to You,” Page has not only taken on a deeply personal role but has also created a cinematic experience that was “cathartic and healing” for him. 

The film, co-written by Page and director Dominic Savage, tells the story of Sam, a trans man returning home for the first time since his transition. The film’s premise explores themes of family, love, and identity, all while unraveling the complexity of revisiting the past. 

But here’s the kicker—there’s no script. That’s right; the entire film is improvised, creating an atmosphere of raw emotion and authenticity that Page says was one of the best experiences of his career.

Page, who publicly came out as transgender in 2020, shared that he didn’t initially plan for his return to film to be something so intimate. However, after a Zoom call with Savage, the duo brainstormed a story centered on what it feels like to run into someone from your past who profoundly impacted you.

And from there, “Close to You” was born. 

For Page, working on this project, improvising the dialogue, and embodying Sam was not just a creative challenge; it was also a deeply emotional journey that allowed him to tap into parts of himself that hadn’t been fully explored on screen before.

Dive deep into the heart of Close to You—a film that’s as raw as it is healing.

Homecoming isn't always sweet—Elliot Page as Sam, confronting love, loss, and the past in his new movie role

Greenwich Entertainment

The film highlights sensitive moments between Sam and his family as he navigates his return home, including an emotionally charged reunion with Katherine, played by Hillary Baack. 

As Baack’s character tells Sam how proud she is of him, Page felt as though the line transcended the character and resonated deeply with him as Elliot. He reflected on how the film brought him a sense of freedom and comfort that he hadn’t previously experienced on set.

Healing Through Authentic Storytelling

Dr. Susan David, an expert in emotional agility, emphasizes the therapeutic benefits of storytelling for identity exploration. By sharing personal narratives, individuals can confront and articulate their experiences, fostering acceptance and healing. In a recent interview, she stated, 'When we express our truths, we not only affirm our identities but also create connection with others who may feel isolated.' This aligns with Elliot Page's journey in 'Close to You,' as he uses his role to bridge understanding between personal experience and audience empathy.

David's work suggests that engaging in creative expression allows for profound emotional processing, making it a powerful tool for anyone navigating identity challenges.

Watch Elliot Page in his most personal role yet—a story of heart, home, and healing.

Sam’s emotional reunion with Katherine will pull at your heartstrings. Watch the scene here

Page’s journey as Sam in “Close to You” mirrors his own personal journey in many ways. It ultimately stands as proof that storytelling can be healing. 

For Page, stepping into Sam’s shoes—and doing so without the safety net of a script—allowed him to embrace both the character and his own lived experience in a way that was raw and incredibly rewarding.

Close to You isn’t just a film about a man coming home but about the journey to find and embrace oneself fully. For Elliot Page, it was more than just acting—it was a chance to live authentically on screen and off.

It’s clear that Close to You holds a special place in Page’s heart, not just as an actor but as a human being. The experience has undoubtedly left a lasting impact on both him and the audience.

A relationship expert notes that familial dynamics can be particularly complex for those undergoing significant identity transitions. Dr. Gary Chapman, known for his work on love languages, suggests that open communication is essential in these situations. He explains, 'Understanding how family members express love can pave the way for healthier conversations about identity and acceptance.'

To improve family relationships during such transitions, he recommends regular family meetings where everyone can voice their feelings without fear of judgment. This proactive approach can mitigate misunderstandings and strengthen familial bonds.

Building Healthier Patterns

Elliot Page's experience in 'Close to You' highlights the importance of representation and the healing potential of storytelling. As experts like Dr. Susan David and Dr. Gary Chapman illustrate, navigating identity transitions can benefit from open dialogue and emotional expression.

Creating safe spaces for these conversations not only fosters acceptance within families but also promotes broader societal understanding. Engaging in storytelling and practicing empathy can lead to significant healing for both individuals and their loved ones, ultimately enriching the narrative of personal journeys.