The Sound of Identity

The Sound of Identity is an award-worthy documentary which serves as a crystalline reminder that although a performer is influenced by their past and present identities and experiences; the portrayal of a role is not constrained by these. Director, James Kicklighter, not only succeeds but is also victorious in capturing Lucia Lucas' portrayal of Don Giovanni at the Tulsa Opera. The storytelling successfully navigates that Ms. Lucas is a transgender woman without eclipsing that she is also a baritone who wields a gravity capable of drawing her audience to the very epicenter of emotion. In fact, it is more to the point to say Ms. Lucas is a world class operatic baritone who also happens to be a transgender woman. Given her performance, I am convinced Ms. Lucas could portray absolutely any role within her vocal range. Throughout the film, she is alternately powerful and genuinely vulnerable as she prepares for and promotes the production of Don Giovanni. She brings a refreshing perspective to the role of a quintessential rake and womanizer as he rushes headlong toward his own destruction. Particularly endearing in this film are the interactions between Ms. Lucas and Tulsa's Artistic Director, Tobias Picker. Their conversations show a tender and growing friendship in their work together to make history as the Tulsa Opera prepares for Ms. Lucas' American operatic debut as a transgender woman. Mr. Kicklighter is triumphant in depicting the journey without objectifying. I highly recommend and, if I could, would give far more than 5-stars!

The storytelling, cinematography and subject matter were all just perfectly timed and executed. It takes twists and turns I didn't see coming and leaves you thinking about issues that you didn't think existed. Well well done.

Wonderfully moving story and masterfully presented.

This film was amazing! A great insight into how modern day opera is evolving.

So vulnerable and captivating! From start to finish sound of identity keeps you on the edge of your seat as Lucia prepares for her role as Don Giovanni. Definitely worth a watch and I must see!

If you think you already know what this documentary is about, you might want to silence your phone, sit back, turn on your TV, and actually spend the next 90 mins watching it. It's so much more than just a headline, it's beautiful, it's relevant and it's made for everyone. The film itself is a well-orchestrated dance among social equality, artistic creation, and identity. I hope more people can enjoy it as much as I did.

Stunning, I've never seen a documentary film like it before. Might be as good as a regular movie.