Micky Angelo Petrillo’s deeply personal documentary about transitioning at 59 will screen during NIFF, September 10–13
Call Me Micky, a documentary following Fort Lee, New Jersey native Micky Angelo Petrillo through his remarkable journey of transitioning at age 59, has been selected for the Newark International Film Festival (NIFF), taking place September 10–13, 2026.
The festival selection brings Petrillo’s story to one of New Jersey’s most diverse cultural centers, giving audiences an opportunity to experience a film about identity, courage, humor and the decision to finally live authentically after decades of hiding.
Call Me Micky follows Petrillo as he begins living openly as himself later in life. Rather than presenting his transition solely through the hardships he encountered, the documentary also embraces the friendships, community, laughter and unexpected moments that became part of his journey.
“It’s about still choosing joy,” Petrillo has said of the project. “Because at the end of the day, if we can’t laugh… what’s the point?”
That combination of honesty and humor gives Call Me Micky its distinctive voice. Petrillo approaches deeply personal subjects with an unfiltered, unmistakably Jersey personality, creating a documentary that is as much about embracing life as it is about transition.
For Petrillo, appearing at NIFF represents more than another film screening. It is an opportunity to reach people who may recognize parts of themselves—or someone they love—in a story about discovering that there is no expiration date on becoming who you were meant to be.
The Newark International Film Festival runs September 10–13, 2026, bringing filmmakers, actors, industry professionals and audiences together for screenings and events celebrating independent cinema.
About Micky Angelo Petrillo
Micky Angelo Petrillo is a transgender filmmaker and advocate from Fort Lee, New Jersey. Through his film work and public appearances, Petrillo speaks about transgender visibility, authenticity and the experience of transitioning later in life. He has participated in panels, conferences and community events, using his own story to encourage conversation, understanding and acceptance.
Watch the official trailer for Call Me Micky on YouTube:
https://youtu.be/jy4FQC-0QuY?si=96r3_tQZ14wJtBxc
Official Website:
https://www.callmemickyfilm.com