Watch A Deal with the Universe

A Deal with the Universe is a thought-provoking and emotional documentary that tells the story of director Jason Barker's journey to parenthood as a transgender man. The film begins with Jason's decision to start a family with his partner, Tracey, through natural conception. We see footage of their daily lives, from their home in Brighton to their visits to the fertility clinic, as they navigate the complex and often daunting process.

Throughout the film, Jason reflects on his own experience growing up and coming to terms with his gender identity. We hear about his struggles with mental health, his relationships with his family, and his eventual decision to transition.

As Jason undergoes hormone therapy and prepares for pregnancy, the film takes on a deeply personal tone. We see the couple's excitement and anticipation as they await the arrival of their child, but also witness the challenges and setbacks they face along the way. From their struggles to obtain medical care to the strain on their relationship, the film is unflinchingly honest about the difficulties of the couple's journey.

Yet, amidst the hardships, there are moments of incredible joy and warmth. We see Jason and Tracey's families come together to support them, and witness the birth of their child, a beautiful moment that is captured with an incredible intimacy.

One of the film's great strengths is its ability to approach complex themes with both compassion and nuance. Throughout the film, we see Jason grapple with questions of parenthood, identity, and community. How does his experience as a transgender man shape his outlook on fatherhood? What kind of example does he want to set for his child? How can he navigate a world that often doesn't understand or accept him?

A Deal with the Universe doesn't attempt to provide easy answers to these questions. Rather, it invites the viewer into a deeply personal and complex journey, one that challenges us to think critically and empathetically about the experiences of others.

Visually, the film is stunning. The use of home videos, archival footage, and animation creates a dynamic and engaging aesthetic that draws the viewer in. The film's soundtrack, featuring artists like Bjork and Radiohead, is also excellent, adding emotional weight and depth to the story.

Overall, A Deal with the Universe is a deeply moving and insightful film that deftly explores themes of identity, parenthood, and community. Jason Barker's story is one that will resonate with anyone who has grappled with questions of who they are, and what kind of life they want to lead. It is a film that challenges us to see the humanity in each other, and to remember that even in the face of hardship, there is always hope.

A Deal with the Universe is a 2019 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 32 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.3.