Plot

"Please don't. I have a family..." were her last words. Powerful documentary Trained in the Ways of Men explores the controversial events surrounding the violent murder of Gwen Araujo in Newark, California—a murder that shocked the country when it made national headlines. From CNN to The New York Times, the case attracted famous attorneys, spawned a made-for-TV movie, compelled almost 1000 people to attend Gwen Araujo's memorial service and thousands more to march in the streets demanding justice. Trained in the Ways of Men is an exploration of the provocative complexities of gender identity; what does it mean to be a man or a woman? Leaving no stone unturned, Director Shelly Prevost scrupulously examines the murder trial and provides numerous interviews with Gwen Araujo’s mother Sylvia and the attorneys involved in the case. Trained in the Ways of Men ultimately encourages us to turn the camera on ourselves and unearth our own buried prejudices and fears.

Reception

Reviews:
San Jose Mercury News (5.0) ""Like an episode of 'Law and Order', the film lays out the facts of the case, allows us to get to know many of the principal characters and packs an emotional wallop.""

Steve Palopoli, Metro (5.0) ""This is a heartfelt and moving film that takes the crucial first step toward healing society's transphobic ills.""
Film Festivals:
Cinequest Film Festival,
San Francisco International Film Festival

Trailers and Artwork

Key Art:

Key Frames: Trailer links:

Quotes and Credits

Credits

Director Shelly Prevost

Production Companies Reel Freedom Films

Additional Cinematographer Heidi Verlaine

Himself Michael Thorman

Cinematography Michelle Prévost

Original Musi Lars Hidde

Produced Shelly Prevost

Himself Tony Serra

Herself Sylvia Guerrero

Sound Post-Production Heidi Verlaine

Sound Re-recording Mixer Lars Hidde