Image Credit: Second Nature on YouTube.
A new documentary co-produced and narrated by Elliot Page is shining a light on something that’s long existed in nature—but hasn’t always been widely acknowledged: same-sex relationships and gender diversity in the animal world.
Titled Second Nature, the film is directed by Drew Denny and dives into the fascinating science behind over 1,500 animal species known to exhibit same-sex behavior, gender fluidity, and even sex changes. From matriarchal bonobo societies to fish that transition between sexes, the documentary challenges the long-held idea that nature is strictly heterosexual and binary.
Beyond showcasing these behaviors, Second Nature also highlights a deeper issue—the lack of representation of these findings in mainstream science and education. According to Page, this absence can have real emotional consequences, especially for young people growing up without seeing themselves reflected in the natural world.
Page spoke candidly about how harmful that erasure can be, describing the isolation many queer kids feel and the “weight of shame” that can come with it. The film aims to counter that by presenting a more complete and accurate picture of nature—one that reflects diversity rather than conformity.
Denny’s inspiration for the project came after reading Evolution’s Rainbow by Joan Roughgarden. The book explores biological diversity in gender and sexuality across species, and it had a profound impact on her. Growing up in a conservative environment, Denny says learning about queerness in nature was a turning point that helped her feel a sense of belonging.
That feeling—of finally understanding that there’s nothing “wrong”—is something she hopes the film can pass on to others.
For Page, being part of the documentary was both meaningful and rewarding. He describes Second Nature as not only informative, but also engaging and entertaining, filled with eye-opening facts that many people have simply never been exposed to before.
But the film isn’t just about science—it’s also about sparking conversation. It raises broader questions about censorship, and what happens when knowledge—whether in science, art, or society—is suppressed or left out entirely.
Second Nature has already made appearances at South by Southwest and is continuing its festival run, including a screening at the Reel Wild Festival. It will also arrive in theaters in Los Angeles on May 24 and New York on June 26, with additional screenings planned.
The filmmakers are making a concerted effort to ensure the documentary reaches a wide audience—from major festivals and universities to smaller, more intimate community groups. Whether it’s a packed theater or a small gathering of LGBTQ+ youth, the goal is simple: make the film accessible to anyone who wants to see it.
At its core, Second Nature is about visibility, understanding, and connection—and helping people realize they’re not alone.
Frank
