THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO CARL BEAN
Directors Daniel Junge and Sam Pollard have given the world a much needed uplift in the guise of their fascinating new documentary on the life of Archbishop Carl Bean named, I Was Born This Way. But why is the title reminiscent of Lady Gaga’s mega-hit, “Born This Way?” Because in an early incarnation as a recording artist, Bean recorded a groundbreaking single, released by Motown in 1977 titled “I Was Born This Way.” The chart-topping hit, released at a time when queer existence was still taboo for many, was written specifically as a gay affirming anthem. (The song’s writer, a straight beautician in Harlem, seems deserving of documentary herself.)
According to Questlove, who is interviewed for the film and serves as an Executive Producer, Bean’s song is, “…one of the most sampled tracks ever recorded.” Lady Gaga, also interviewed for the film, credits Bean’s track with “solving the problems” that challenged her in the early stages of writing her similarly named paean to self-acceptance. Billy Porter, also an Executive Producer, is depicted searching for the original studio masters of Bean’s work, so influenced was he by Bean’s message of joy and self-love for Black, same-gender loving people. Yes, it’s a great song but is that the reason talent of this caliber — including Dionne Warwick and Maxine Waters — appear in this engaging documentary?
Turns out it’s as much about praising the song as it is to champion the man himself. Centered on an extensive interview with Bean, the warm-hearted and welcoming Reverend essentially narrates his own story in this timely work. Directors Junge and Pollard effectively use rotoscope animation to fill in the visuals in portions of Bean’s storytelling when needed, giving a larger than life feel to the man the film chronicles. Essentially telling three stories at once — that of Bean’s trajectory, the history and impact of his Motown hit, and Porter’s journey to discover and utilize Bean’s studio masters — this 100-minute movie can sometimes feel like an embarrassment of riches.
But when you’re talking about Carl Bean — gospel star, pop star, founder of Minority Aids Project Los Angeles, founder of Unity Fellowship Church (which grew into a nationally recognized Christian denomination), childhood trauma survivor, unbowed speaker of truth to power and a constant source of hope and strength for those in need — too much really is never enough. Now at a time when the contributions and existences of queer people and people of color are being severely marginalized, I Was Born This Way serves in stark contrast as a celebration of a Black and Gay man who refused marginalization in any area of his life. And by doing so, he improved the lives of countless others. Luckily, that’s a contribution that can never be erased.
I Was Born This Way
world premiere screening at Tribeca Film Festival
reviewed on June 5, 2025
feature documentary| 100 minutes | United States | English
for more screenings, visit TFF
photos by Kevin Vavasseur
Beatitude Bishop Zachary Jones; Producer Wellington Love; Director & Producer Daniel Junge
Executive Producers: Carl Bean's niece, Cori Robinson and Questlove
Creative Team of I Was Born This Way
