From Yellowjackets to Heartstopper, on-screen trans storylines are increasing. However, the new horror flick Evil Dead Rise has given the representation that has still been lacking: Trans morons.
The latest installment in the Evil Dead supernatural franchise has been making waves since its cinema release last week on April, 21 with fans loving the sheer amount of blood, gore, and great acting. But one role is standing out: Danny, played by trans-Australian actor Morgan Davies. Danny is one of three siblings, alongside Bridget (Gabrielle Echols) and Kassie (Nell Fisher). Their single mother Ellie (Alyssa Sutherland) ends up possessed – with a little help from Danny. As an aspiring DJ, teenager Danny accidentally manages to spin a vinyl that ends up releasing demonic spirits into their apartment, effectively putting all their lives in bloody peril.
In a TV and film world where so much trans representation is about characters’ pain or trauma related to their identity or heart-warming yet mushy content about overcoming adversity, people are enjoying seeing a trans actor play a role that’s simply about summoning evil chaos. Plus, there’s no mention of Danny being trans or cisgender, while Warner Bros has not made a huge deal about casting a trans man in the role.