Skip to main content
The Man I Was Born To Be

Help Bring This Story
to the World

Your donation directly funds the documentary and helps ensure that Micky's story reaches the audiences who need it most.

Why Your Support Matters

A Story That Needs to Be Told — Now

My name is Micky-Angelo Petrillo, and at 62 years old, I am finally living as the man I was born to be. It only took me 59 years to figure that out. But this project isn't just about my transition — it's about using humor and radical honesty to change the way the world sees the trans community.

In a time where our dignity and civil rights are under attack, I believe the most powerful weapon we have is visibility. My goal is simple: before you judge a trans person, get to know one.

We are creating a short documentary to submit to film festivals across the country — the fastest way to get our message out, build a national following, and attract investors for a full-length docuseries. This has not been an easy journey. To tell this story authentically, I've had to be completely vulnerable.

  • Financial Betrayal: $20,000 was stolen by a former producer, nearly stalling the project entirely.
  • Personal Heartbreak: Facing rejection from those who should have loved me most.
  • The Political Climate: Navigating a world that often meets our existence with violence or ignorance.

From Micky

“Whether you contribute $10 or $1,000, you are becoming a producer of change. If you believe that humor can bridge the gap of ignorance, and that every human being deserves to live their truth, please join us.”

— Micky-Angelo Petrillo

100+
Contributors
3
Target Festivals
62
Years in the Making
1
True Story

Choose Your Level of Support

Perks & Recognition

Every contribution comes with something special. Your gift goes directly toward post-production, festival submissions, and travel — getting this film in front of the audiences who need it most.

$150
Credits + Film Viewing Link

Your name in the ending credits of the documentary, plus a private viewing link to watch the finished film during a 48-hour window after release.

$500
Jersey Strong

Step into the spotlight — Micky brings the mic to you. Be part of the documentary itself, interviewed and featured as part of the project. Limit of 10.

$1,000
Let's Meet!

Join the filmmakers for a one-hour private Zoom session. Ask anything about documentary filmmaking, storytelling, or Micky's journey. Great for groups, schools, or organizations.

$2,500
Reset Premium

Film credits, a personal video message from Micky thanking you by name, a social media shout-out, and your name listed on the website. Proof you can start over — and get a shout-out while doing it.

$5,000
Hall of Fame Donor

You're an Associate Producer. Your name appears in the film with an Associate Producer credit, plus special recognition on the website. A big-league thank you for helping bring this story to the world.

$10,000
Platinum Donor

Executive Producer credit on the documentary, Platinum Donor recognition on the website, and the knowledge that you played a central role in making The Man I Was Born To Be possible.

Support the Film

Become a Producer
of Change

Every contribution, large or small, brings The Man I Was Born To Be one step closer to the screen.

Please select a giving level.
Please enter your name.
Please enter a valid email address.

Secured by Stripe. Your payment information is never stored on this site.

Thank You for Being Part of This Story

Your generosity means the world. Together, we're making sure that stories like Micky's are seen, heard, and felt by the people who need them most.

Spread the Word