Movie Overview
Tangerine (2015) is a raw, vibrant comedy-drama directed by Sean Baker that follows two trans sex workers on a chaotic Christmas Eve in Los Angeles. The film stars Kitana Kiki Rodriguez as Sin-Dee Rella and Mya Taylor as Alexandra, who embark on a frenzied mission to confront a cheating boyfriend and his lover. Shot entirely on an iPhone, Tangerine captures the gritty yet colorful underbelly of LA with remarkable intimacy. The plot centers on Sin-Dee's release from prison and her discovery that her pimp and boyfriend, Chester (played by James Ransone), has been unfaithful. Alongside her best friend Alexandra, Sin-Dee tears through Tinseltown in a high-energy quest for revenge and resolution. The film also features Karren Karagulian as an Armenian taxi driver caught up in the chaos. Sean Baker's direction brings an authentic, documentary-like feel to the story, highlighting the lives of marginalized communities with humor and heart. The film balances themes of friendship, betrayal, and survival against the backdrop of a festive holiday. Tangerine received critical acclaim, earning a 96% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and an 86/100 on Metacritic. It won 24 awards and received 42 nominations total, including several for its groundbreaking performances. With a runtime of 88 minutes and an R rating, Tangerine is a must-watch for fans of independent cinema. Stream Tangerine on Netflix to experience one of the most innovative and compelling films of the year.
