Olivia Colman Reflects on Learning About the Trans Community While Filming Jimpa
Oscar-winning actress Olivia Colman has opened up about her journey of understanding the trans and non-binary community while starring in the new film Jimpa. Known for roles in The Favourite and Netflix’s Heartstopper, Colman takes the lead as Hannah, a mother navigating her non-binary child’s visit to their gay father in Amsterdam.
Directed by Sophie Hyde and based on her real-life experiences, Jimpa explores intergenerational queer experiences, from the AIDS crisis to evolving language around gender identity. Colman’s co-star Aud Mason-Hyde, Hyde’s trans non-binary child, plays Hannah’s child, Frances.
Stepping Into the Role
Colman, 52, explained that although her character is not queer, she felt a deep connection to Hannah’s perspective.
“I suppose I am on the outside. I have a heterosexual relationship. But then in the world I live in, I’m with queer community a lot,” she said, adding, “I’ve never been part of a more welcoming group of people.”
She described the queer community as “the most welcoming, kind bunch of people” and expressed her admiration for their inclusivity.
“For all those naysayers or haters or meanies, if [only] they could spend the time with the most welcoming, kind bunch of people. I kind of want everyone to just come and say hi and actually feel total love.”
Colman shared that the role was natural for her, noting her lifelong experiences with non-binary and queer perspectives:
“I’ve never felt massively feminine in being female. I’ve always described myself to my husband as a gay man. And he goes, ‘Yeah, I get that.’ So I do feel at home and at ease. I feel like I have a foot in various camps.”
Learning About the Trans and Non-Binary Community
Despite prior exposure to LGBTQ+ circles through her career, Colman said filming Jimpa taught her more about trans and non-binary people:
“I do think I learned an awful lot on the way as well. And actually, I’m not sure that I spent so much time with anyone in the trans community before then… Yeah, I did learn a bit and I got better at pronouns, as well.”
Jimpa Highlights Queer History
The film also addresses the struggles and activism of the AIDS crisis through Hannah’s father, Jim, a gay man living with HIV, portrayed by John Lithgow. Lithgow’s involvement has sparked conversation, given his upcoming role as Albus Dumbledore in HBO’s adaptation of J.K. Rowling’s wizarding series, which has raised controversy around trans issues.
Aud Mason-Hyde reflected on Lithgow’s casting, calling it “a difficult moment in time,” though they refrained from critiquing his personal reasoning.
Jimpa is currently screening in select New York and Los Angeles theaters, with a UK release date yet to be confirmed.