
logline
80 Years. A lifetime of silence and secrets.
Tom seeing his grandson struggle as a gay teen, decides it's finally time to embrace his transgender identity and reveal Telane to her family, friends, and the world.

synopsis
For seven decades, Tom Farr has masterfully navigated two distinct worlds—a successful commercial electrician, husband, and father, while concealing their authentic self - Telane - the transgender identity hidden from everyone who knew Tom. This carefully constructed life came at a profound personal cost: isolation, mental and emotional strain, and the constant fear of discovery. Tom’s survival strategy was starkly simple—meticulously maintaining absolute separation between their male and female identities. Colleagues who unknowingly met Telane never connected her to their co-worker Tom. Tom’s professional and family circles were completely unaware of Telane’s existence.
​
Now, at 80, Tom faces an impossible choice. Witnessing their 13-year-old grandson’s struggle with identity and concerns at school amidst his parents’ contentious separation, Tom sees an opportunity for transformative love. By revealing their true self as Telane, they risk everything: family relationships, professional reputation, and the safety found under the cloak of cisgender identity they have maintained for decades. This is not just a personal revelation, but an act of intergenerational solidarity—a courageous stand that could either destroy or heal a family’s understanding of authenticity, love, and acceptance.

The Divide Within explores the complexities of identity, the weight of long-held secrets, and the transformative power of authenticity.
​
– Dean Bushala, Director

In today’s shifting political landscape, particularly in Washington, there has never been a more critical moment to share this powerful story. The Divide Within is more than just a documentary—it’s a vital testament to the human experience behind the headlines, following the raw, honest journey of a proud American—a former service member, educator, and active community contributor.
In an era where LGBTQ+ rights face unprecedented challenges, we are seeking tax-deductible donations through our fiscal sponsor, The Arts Project Foundation, to bring this essential project to life. Your contribution toward our goal of $348,000 will enable us to complete filming, fund post-production and animation work, and develop a comprehensive outreach strategy to ensure this story reaches critical audiences across the nation.
By supporting The Divide Within, you’re not just funding a film—you’re investing in a movement toward greater understanding and acceptance at a moment when personal narratives matter most.