Will & Harper
Will Ferrell is best known for his energetic comedic performances in the likes of Anchorman, Elf and Stepbrothers. However, documentary Will & Harper is a (mostly) more serious outing for the comedian, which sees him embark on a 16-day road trip across the States with Harper Steele, an old friend of his who has recently transitioned. Having not seen each other in some time, the trip is an opportunity for Ferrell to get to know the person Harper has become, and for Harper to revisit some of her favourite places as her true self. It’s a format that allows for both wonderfully uplifting moments and poignant truths to come through naturally. However, this heartfelt adventure is often derailed by moments that come across as a little too staged.
With their friendship dating back to when they worked on SNL together, the genuine companionship and love Ferrell and Steele have for each other is evident in every beer and laugh they share. Their closeness enables them to talk openly about aspects of transitioning in a way that helps both Ferrell and audiences better understand Steele’s situation, with many of these conversations having points of gut-wrenching honesty within them, which reinforces why talking about this subject is so vital.
Steele’s main point of concern is that she will no longer be accepted in the places she loves. While small moments like drinking with strangers in a bar that initially looks uninviting show that humanity can be warm and welcoming, frequent misgendering illustrates that her anxieties are justified. Nowhere are these fears better exemplified than in a scene that sees Steele read a series of vile and hateful tweets directed at herself after the pair are captured eating at a Texas restaurant.
It’s somewhat irritating then that the film periodically shatters its artifice by throwing in celebrity cameos and playing into Ferrell’s comedy routines. This documentary is at its best when the subjects are being themselves and enjoying each other’s company. A sequence in which Ferrell disguises himself for dinner goes against the film’s tone, and instead comes across like a gag from one of his comedies.
Although too much of this Netflix documentary is attributed to Ferrell’s comedy persona and celebrity status, Will & Harper is nevertheless a joyous journey of discovery, which raises many important points about transitioning.
Andrew Murray
Will & Harper is released on Netflix on 27th September 2024.
Watch the trailer for Will & Harper here:
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