It starts almost like a game. Danish painter Einar Wegener, who is married to artist Gerda Wegener, begins exploring a female identity by appearing as “Lili” as part of an artistic experiment. But gradually, Einar realises that Lili is not just a role – it is who he truly feels he is, and he wants to fully embrace that identity. After a painful journey, including difficult moments with Gerda and encounters with several doctors, many of whom fail to understand him, Einar finally meets a doctor willing to help Lili transition. She becomes Lili Elbe. This is a deeply moving story about love, identity, and courage – not only for Lili, but also for Gerda, who has to face the transformation of the person she loves. An incredibly touching film inspired by the true story of Lili Elbe.
“It’s hard for a man to be looked at by a woman. Women are used to it, of course, but for a man to submit to a woman’s gaze – it’s unsettling. Although I believe there’s some pleasure to be had from it, once you yield.”