I Am My Own Woman

An elderly transgender woman who runs the Gründerzeit Museum and embodies a life lived as a woman from the turn of the 20th century. The film dramatizes her recollections across Nazi Germany, East Germany, and reunified Germany, underscoring resilience, privacy, and self-determination. Her ongoing project is to preserve a personal and cultural history that might otherwise be lost.

The precocious youth who grows into Charlotte’s later life. An effeminate boy during Nazi times, he finds an outlet for gender expression during early experiences away from home. His life is shaped by familial violence, a pivotal act of self-definition, and the beginnings of a lifelong journey toward living as a woman.

A transgender woman who provides a safe space for Lothar to explore female dress and gender expression. She lends him the book The Transvestite and respects his privacy, acting as a compassionate mentor during a turbulent coming-of-age.

An elderly equestrian officer who becomes a lover and protector to Charlotte for years. Their relationship illustrates affection across class and age differences, her need for experienced companionship, and the gradual decline of his health that ends their liaison.

Charlotte’s long-time lover, whose relationship spans decades and includes intense, boundary-pushing sexual dynamics. Their bond endures through many years and turmoil, until Jochen’s death shifts the course of Charlotte’s life.

The filmmaker appears as himself, linking the narrative to the real-world context of East German cinema. His presence underscores the film’s engagement with LGBTQ history and regional film culture, including the East German film Coming Out.

Charlotte’s brutal father, whose harsh discipline and threats shape Lothar’s childhood. His violence and authority contribute to the family dynamics that drive the nightmarish events of Lothar’s youth.

Appearing as herself, Tima die Göttliche participates as a contemporary voice within the film, contributing to its exploration of modern queer culture and public identity in a transitioning Germany.

Appearing as herself, Ovo Maltine embodies a real-world presence within the narrative, reflecting the blend of personal memory and public performance in queer history.