I Was Born This Way is a documentary that contributes to Questlove’s homage, collection, and discovery of significant Black artists and music that changed the course of history through their undying spirit and commitment to uplifting marginalized individuals as they battled many demons to become supreme beings.
From the beginning, Billy Porter introduces Chris Jones, whose mother wrote “I Was Born This Way.” She owned a beauty salon and penned these songs for the men and women she beautified, recognizing their need to be acknowledged as human beings in society. It’s a moment in time when Questlove drops a needle on the album and reflects on how many samples and uses have emerged since the song was first heard. The song’s influence continues in many forms since its release in 1977.
It will be 46 years later when Porter takes the untouched master recordings and discovers a second song, “Liberation,” which adds another layer to the story of courage and beauty through artistry and belief. Porter allows these master recordings to make history, bringing Carl Bean’s work and legend into the present to be carried into the future.
“…captures your attention through stunning audio and employs innovative rotoscope animation…”
Bean knew he was different and loved gospel because it was his safe space where he could sing. This passion became a significant part of his life, especially after he left his career as a singer and songwriter to empower others through activism by launching the Minority AIDS Project. He provided humanitarian services to underserved populations during the AIDS crisis, which so few wanted to acknowledge. His undying passion to comfort and be by the bedside of those who suffered and died from AIDS was an act of God.
As tribute to Carl Bean, I Was Born This Way captures your attention through stunning audio and employs innovative rotoscope animation, conveying a sense of time and place while embodying an ambiance and awareness. In addition, the film is enhanced with archival footage, images, and various found items, layering this documentary to be a part of history. The significance of Carl Bean’s legacy as an “unapologetic gay Black trailblazer,” a joyful human with a beautiful voice, and his undeniable message that “love is for everyone” feels heartfelt and evokes a sense of sadness in these current times of 2025, as who would be able to fulfill a role like this ever again.
I Was Born This Way screened at the 2025 Tribeca Film Festival.
"…The song’s influence continues in many forms since its release in 1977."
