Glen or Glenda?

film by Wood [1953]

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July 20, 2026

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Glen or Glenda (1953) is a film directed by Ed Wood, who also starred in it. The movie was inspired by the story of Christine Jorgensen, the first American to undergo gender-affirming surgery. Wood portrayed the cross-dressing protagonist, Glen. The film features Bela Lugosi as a godlike narrator commenting on the events. While Glen or Glenda showcases Wood's artistic limitations, it is noted for its sympathetic portrayal of transgender individuals and Wood's personal connection to the subject matter. Wood is known for his cult classic films, despite being called "the worst director of all time".1

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Ed Wood
Glen or Glenda, Bride of the Monster, and Plan 9 from Outer Space
…first feature film Wood directed, Glen or Glenda, was inspired by the story of Christine Jorgensen, the first American to undergo a successful gender-affirming surgery, and Wood starred as the cross-dressing title character. Wood had befriended Bela Lugosi, one of his childhood idols, who by then was struggling to find…
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…first feature film Wood directed, Glen or Glenda, was inspired by the story of Christine Jorgensen, the first American to undergo a successful gender-affirming surgery, and Wood starred as the cross-dressing title character. Wood had befriended Bela Lugosi, one of his childhood idols, who by then was struggling to find…
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Bela Lugosi
…such staggeringly shoddy efforts as Glen or Glenda? (1953), Bride of the Monster (1956), and Plan 9 from Outer Space (filmed 1956, released 1959), all now unintentionally hilarious cult favourites. Lugosi was buried, as he wished, wearing the long black cape that he had worn in Dracula.
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…such staggeringly shoddy efforts as Glen or Glenda? (1953), Bride of the Monster (1956), and Plan 9 from Outer Space (filmed 1956, released 1959), all now unintentionally hilarious cult favourites. Lugosi was buried, as he wished, wearing the long black cape that he had worn in Dracula.
Read More