The Aggressives

"The Aggressives" is a compelling, eye-opening documentary feature directed by Daniel Peddle. Released in 2005, the film explores a lesser-known subculture within New York's African American and Latino communities, known as the "aggressives." This 74-minute feature documents the journeys of six individuals over a six-year period, offering a raw, unfiltered insight into the personal, social, and cultural facets of the Aggressive lifestyle.

The term "Aggressive," popular within certain LGBTQ+ circles, refers to women who, although identifying as female, convey masculinity in their dress, mannerisms, and behavior. Carpenter jeans, bandannas, skateboards, and flat-brimmed caps define their style. Many Aggressives prefer to pass as men, a choice that facilitates discussions on gender identity, societal norms, and self-expression. This documentary explores these themes through real-life stories and personal accounts, unveiling a world far removed from traditional binary perspectives.

Peddle's intensive interviewing style invites viewers into the personal lives of individuals within this culture. The film covers various aspects of their lives, such as their struggles with societal expectations, their personal relationships, and their efforts to express their unique identities amidst opposition. The six subjects of the documentary, Flo, Kisha, Marquise, Octavia, Tiffany, and Rjai, share their stories with eloquence and frankness that sets this film apart, infusing it with a sense of intimacy and authenticity.

"The Aggressives" delves into specific cultural events, like annual 'Aggressive Balls,' that the group attends. These occasions provide valuable opportunities for Aggressives to come together, display their unique styles, and gain acceptance and appreciation from their peers — a stark contrast to how they're often viewed in everyday society.

The film also tackles the adversities that the Aggressives face in their respective communities. From issues of prejudice and homophobia to the lack of understanding and acceptance about their gender identity, they face myriad challenges. However, through it all, they remain resilient and firm in asserting their identities, demanding that their voices be acknowledged and their stories heard.

The documentary also explores their relationships with their biological families. A few, like Flo, are accepted and supported by their families wholeheartedly. Others, like Marquise, face unwelcome reactions and even disownment. Yet, Peddle shows how their chosen Aggressives community in New York often evolves into a surrogate family, providing support and understanding that they may lack from biological relatives.

Peddle's narrative sheds light on the socio-economic difficulties many Aggressives face due to their identity. Because many of them choose to live as men but have not undergone gender reassignment surgery, finding steady employment and economic stability prove to be added challenges. The film doesn't shy away from the stark realities of poverty and homelessness that many Aggressives face. Gritty glimpses of their frequent struggle for everyday necessities or the looming fear of homelessness paint a poignant picture of their socio-economic challenges.

"The Aggressives" also touches upon the complexity of romantic relationships within this subculture. The Aggressives usually establish relationships with feminine lesbians or straight women, sometimes even having biological children with them. These unconventional relationships, filled with love, passion, jealousy, and heartbreak, further illustrate the intricacies of their identities and disrupt conventional understandings of gender and sexuality.

Peddle's raw, candid approach in "The Aggressives," coupled with a remarkable passion for understanding their world, provides an unforgettable viewing experience. The film's non-judgmental, intimate portraits of the subjects, their lives, struggles, and joys inspire empathy and a deeper understanding of identity's fluid nature.

In conclusion, "The Aggressives" is an impactful documentary offering an intimate look at a often overlooked subculture. Expertly directed by Daniel Peddle, it stands as an invaluable exploration into one of the most fascinating and least understood subcultures within the broader LGBTQ+ landscape. The film serves as a powerful testament to the diversity of human identity and invites audiences to challenge their understanding of gender norms and societal expectations.