Tangerine

About Tangerine

"Tangerine" is an independent drama film directed by Sean Baker, which was released in 2015. The narrative revolves around a transgender sex worker who discovers her boyfriend and pimp has been unfaithful to her. Set in Los Angeles on Christmas Eve, a large part of the story showcases her journey through the city's underbelly to confront her cheating boyfriend.

Making / Production

The film is famous for being shot entirely on three iPhone 5s smartphones. Due to Baker's limited budget, using iPhones and a collection of inexpensive lenses proved a cost-effective method to achieve a unique aesthetic. The film's distinct blend of humor and drama also stems from Sean Baker's process of co-writing with Chris Bergoch, focusing on the experiences of people often forgotten by society.

Actors

• Kitana Kiki Rodriguez as Sin-Dee Rella: Rodriguez delivered a raw, passionate performance, embodying the frustrations and desires of her character.
• Mya Taylor as Alexandra: Taylor brings depth and compassion to the role of Alexandra, adding a layer of kindness and understanding to the film’s harsh innate realism.
• Karren Karagulian as Razmik: As the offbeat taxi driver Razmik, Karagulian offers an engaging performance, exploiting the moral ambiguities of a complex character.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The film was entirely shot on the iPhone 5s.
• The film's title is a reference to the unusually warm, orange-hued light that occurs on the city streets at dusk.
• Prior to shooting, the director spent nearly a year researching the area and hearing stories from transgender sex workers.

Awards

The film received numerous awards, including the Gotham Independent Film Award for Breakthrough Actor for Mya Taylor. It was also nominated for an Independent Spirit Award for Best Director.

Quotes

• "F*** a real fish, you know? Finding Nemo. F*** him!" - Sin-Dee Rella
• "Who's gonna claim you, fool?" - Alexandra
• "It's Christmas Eve. Can we keep the peace?" - Alexandra

Music, Soundtrack

• "Grind Everyday" by Rell the Soundbender ft. Clint Mansell
• "Merry Christmas (In Case You Don't See Me)
• "Beautiful Sinners" by Rell the Soundbender ft. Clint Mansell