Directed by Josh Greenbaum, Will & Harper is a poignant documentary that highlights the evolving friendship between Will Ferrell and Harper Steele. More than just a road trip film, this intimate portrayal delves deep into the essence of compassion, kindness, and human vulnerability, offering viewers a sincere narrative about identity, growth, and understanding. Watch the full movie on Soap2day.

The Opening: Setting the Tone with Will Ferrell

The documentary opens with a clever, meta-narrative as Ferrell sits in a chair, preparing for an interview. He humorously reflects on the documentary setup, breaking the fourth wall and commenting on the B-roll technique that filmmakers often use to capture candid moments. This self-awareness sets the tone for the rest of the film, inviting the audience to experience an honest, raw, and unscripted journey.

Ferrell’s monologue not only captures the essence of documentary filmmaking but also highlights his natural humor, which he carries throughout the film. From the very beginning, it’s clear that this documentary is more than just a surface-level exploration of a road trip. It’s a deep dive into relationships, personal evolution, and the complexities of life itself.

A Friendship Spanning Three Decades: Will and Harper’s Bond

The foundation of the story rests on the long-standing friendship between Will Ferrell and Harper Steele. Their relationship dates back to 1995 when Ferrell first started working at Saturday Night Live. Harper, then a head writer, became one of Ferrell’s closest confidants, and their bond continued to grow over the years, marked by shared creativity, humor, and respect.

In the documentary, we learn about an email Harper sent to Ferrell three years ago—a life-altering message in which she came out as a trans woman. This revelation serves as the film's emotional core, demonstrating how true friendship can withstand even the most significant personal changes.

The documentary uses this email as a storytelling device, cutting between Ferrell and Harper as they each read sections aloud. This technique allows the audience to feel the weight of Harper’s decision and Ferrell’s heartfelt reaction, providing a window into their emotional connection and shared vulnerability.

Harper Steele: Embracing Her True Self

Harper Steele’s journey is one of profound courage. Having lived as a man for most of her life, her decision to transition later in life is a testament to her resilience and authenticity. In Will & Harper, Harper discusses her fears and anxieties surrounding her transition, from the concern of how others might perceive her to the more personal fear of losing the love and support of those closest to her.

This segment of the film is deeply moving, as Harper reflects on the years she spent hiding her true self. The documentary doesn’t shy away from the emotional and psychological complexities of transitioning, especially at an older age. Harper’s story is one that many can relate to—whether they are trans themselves or have faced other personal battles of acceptance and identity.

Her courage, in facing these challenges head-on, becomes an inspiring message for viewers, demonstrating that it is never too late to be true to oneself.

The Road Trip: A Journey of Discovery

The road trip that Will and Harper embark on is much more than a physical journey across the country. It’s a symbolic journey of self-discovery, acceptance, and shared growth. Along the way, they reflect on their past, talk about their futures, and share moments of laughter and introspection.

Throughout the film, the dialogue between the two friends is genuine and heartfelt. Ferrell, known for his comedic timing, balances moments of levity with deep sincerity, showing his unwavering support for Harper. The film beautifully captures their camaraderie, illustrating how their friendship has evolved and adapted to the changes in both their lives.

As they traverse different landscapes, the cinematography enhances the storytelling, juxtaposing the vast, open spaces of America with the intimate, personal conversations that unfold inside the car. The road becomes a metaphor for the personal journeys they are both on—one of understanding, acceptance, and empathy.

A Celebration of Humanity: Kindness and Compassion as Central Themes

At its heart, Will & Harper is a celebration of the best qualities within humanity. The documentary highlights how kindness and compassion can transcend all obstacles, whether personal or societal. Ferrell’s unwavering support of Harper serves as a powerful example of how true friendship is built on love and acceptance, no matter the circumstances.

Greenbaum’s direction ensures that the film never feels preachy or overly sentimental. Instead, it maintains a tone of genuine warmth and authenticity, allowing the audience to feel the emotional depth of the story without being overwhelmed by it. The film doesn’t try to solve every problem or answer every question about identity and acceptance, but it does offer a touching reminder that the best relationships are built on mutual respect and love.

Cinematic Techniques: Enhancing the Narrative

Greenbaum employs a range of cinematic techniques to enhance the storytelling. The frequent use of flashbacks, for instance, helps the audience understand the history between Ferrell and Harper, providing context for their deep bond. These flashbacks are seamlessly woven into the present-day narrative, creating a rich, layered viewing experience.

The use of music also plays a significant role in setting the tone of the documentary. Subtle, uplifting scores underscore key moments, adding emotional weight without distracting from the dialogue.

Conclusion: A Must-Watch Documentary for Our Times

Will & Harper is not just a documentary about two friends on a road trip. It’s a profound exploration of identity, friendship, and the human capacity for kindness. Directed with sensitivity and care by Josh Greenbaum, the film offers an intimate look into the lives of Will Ferrell and Harper Steele, showcasing the power of true friendship in the face of life’s most significant challenges.

For viewers, this documentary serves as a reminder of the importance of empathy, understanding, and love in our relationships with others. Will & Harper is a must-watch for anyone seeking a heartfelt, deeply human story in today’s world.