Funnyman Will Ferrell Gets Personal In This Netflix Documentary

You might be used to seeing SNL veteran Will Ferrell acting in an absurd, over-the-top manner in hopes of getting a laugh out of the audience. But now he’s promoting a documentary called “Will & Harper” that has a decidedly deeper mission.

A shifting friendship

The “Harper” in the film’s title references Harper Steele, who served as head writer during Ferrell’s time at SNL. After Steele came out as transgender, the two longtime friends were determined to remain as close as ever.

And part of that process involved a road trip during which Steele and Ferrell spent time getting to know each other during the current chapter of their lives. It was this experience that provided the content for “Will & Harper.”

Plenty of weighty issues are discussed during the course of the Netflix film, including Steele’s realization that some aspects of life will never be the same — including learning to “be a little more afraid” while walking down a dark alley than prior to transitioning.

Built-in comic relief

For his part, Ferrell seems comfortable embracing his role as an LGBTQ ally with a big heart and a goofy sense of humor. Although he asks a series of personal, if not invasive, questions during the road trip, it seems clear that his inquisitiveness comes from a good place.

The pair travel to an array of destinations, including a few spots that were depicted as less than enthusiastic to welcome them (and their camera crew).

By the very nature of filming a documentary, Steele and Ferrell attracted plenty of attention — for better or worse — wherever they went.

Ferrell remarked: “As much as I’ve been in a fishbowl at various times in my life, this trumps all of it.”

But throughout it all, the two forged ahead with their friendship and wit intact.

Chris Agee September 28th, 2024

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