Hot Docs

What’s in a Name is a riveting portrait of 52-year-old Jon Cory, a charismatic New York City body-art performer whose raw and provocative acts—and their meticulous preparations—challenge society’s limited views on gender. Jon, a carpenter by day, lives out of his small workshop. He uses a cramped closet to store his numerous costumes and wigs, to prepare for his performances, and to sleep. Jon’s artistic dedication to challenging current gender norms is portrayed by the laborious process of transformation he undergoes for one 2-1/2 minute show. From taping his testicles to his bum to combing out his wig, the film smartly zeroes in on intimate moments of body manipulation, giving us unique insight into Jon’s world. When Jon decides to get breast implants for one his performances, he struggles again with his identity and his place in society. - Shannon Abel

Meet the filmmakers behind WHAT’S IN A NAME.