In the Netflix documentaryWill & Harper,Will Ferrell and Harper Steele embark on a 17-day road trip across America, exploring various cities and landmarks while having candid conversations about life, identity, and their long-standing friendship. This journey takes them through major urban centers, small towns, and iconic landscapes, each location playing a role in their narrative. Along the way, the duo meets different people and shares experiences that offer insight into personal growth and the evolving cultural landscape. Thewell-reviewedWill & Harperdocumentarycombines travel, human connection, and self-discovery as Will and Harper reflect on these important themes.
Each stop on their road trip serves a unique purpose, both for the documentary’s narrative and thepersonal stories of Will Ferrell and Harper Steele. The places they visit reflect a mix of history, personal memory, and the larger sociopolitical context of the U.S. They interact with locals, reconnect with old friends, and engage in activities that are both lighthearted and introspective. The trip provides a setting for Harper, a trans woman, to reflect on her experiences transitioning, while Will, as a supportive companion, navigates conversations on acceptance and identity in contemporary America.
11New York – Dinner with Friends
The road trip inWill & Harperkicks off with a dinner in New York City, where Will Ferrell and Harper Steele are joined by Will’s formerSaturday Night Livecolleagues Tina Fey, Seth Meyers, and Colin Jost. This first stop is meaningful for Harper, as it affirms the support and acceptance from her long-time friends post-transition. The group discusses Harper’s past in New York, a city that played a significant role in shaping her identity and journey. The atmosphere is light and nostalgic, setting a positive tone for the rest of their road trip.
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During the dinner, the friends also talk about their plans for the 17-day journey ahead. Harper and Will share excitement over the places they will visit, reflecting on the meaningful experiences and conversations they hope to have along the way. Will’s supportive nature shines through as they all reminisce about old memories and discuss Harper’s personal evolution, illustrating the deep bonds of friendship that will carry them through the trip. This stop serves as a grounding point for both the documentary’s narrative and Harper’s personal reflections.
10Washington, D.C. – Reflecting Pool and The White House
On the second day, the duo heads to Washington, D.C., where they visit the ironic ‘Reflecting Pool’ and the White House. The nation’s capital offers a historic and political backdrop, and Harper reflects on her experiences with activism in the LGBTQ+ community. According toan interview with Josh Greenbaum,“Will ..wanted to go to DC, where I lost him in the International Spy Museum. He’s calling “Come find me!” and he’s hiding in an air duct.”
Washington, D.C., also gives Will and Harper the opportunity to engage in thoughtful conversations about the political climate. They discuss how policies impact marginalized communities and reflect on the importance of the nation’s symbols in advocating for change.
9Beech Grove, Indianapolis – The Mecca and Pacers Game
Will and Harper make their way to Beech Grove, Indianapolis, where they visit “The Mecca,” a well-known local spot. At an Indiana Pacers game, Will and Harper unexpectedly find allies despite Harper’s fear of facing hostility in red-state America. However, their meeting with the Governor of Indiana, Eric Holcomb, is tense due to his anti-trans political stance. This stop highlights the complexities of acceptance in politically conservative areas.
The political conversation returns when they discuss Indiana’s governor’s recent ban on gender-affirming care. Harper shares her frustrations over the legislative hurdles trans individuals face, particularly in states with conservative policies. The contrast between the fun of the basketball game and the seriousness of these issues highlights the complexities of Harper’s journey.
8Peoria, Illinois – Meeting Dana Garber
In Peoria, Illinois, Will and Harper meet with Dana Garber, a trans woman who transitioned later in life. Dana has become an active member of the trans community in Peoria and shares her own experiences with Harper. Their conversation dives into the challenges and triumphs of transitioning at different stages in life and how communities like Peoria support their trans residents.
This part of the trip brings a sense of community and solidarity. Harper and Dana discuss the importance of representation and advocacy, noting how their personal journeys have been shaped by the people they meet along the way.
7Iowa City, Iowa – Home Turf
Harper’s journey becomes even more personal when they arrive in Iowa City, where Harper grew up. The documentary takes a nostalgic turn as Harper and Will visit the house where Harper spent her childhood. Staying with her sister adds a familial aspect to the trip, deepening the exploration of Harper’s identity and personal history.
Iowa City offers Harper a chance to reconnect with her past while reflecting on how much has changed since her transition. Will, as always, is by her side, listening to her stories and asking thoughtful questions about her experiences.
6Meeker, Oklahoma – The Bar and Dirt Track
In Meeker, Oklahoma, Will and Harper visit a local bar, where Harper explores the idea of feeling comfortable in traditionally conservative spaces as a trans woman. This visit sparks a heartfelt discussion between the two about the realities and challenges of navigating such environments. Harper reflects on how different regions across the country provide varying levels of safety and comfort for trans individuals. For her, the bar in Meeker represents a moment of contemplation about acceptance, both from others and within herself, and the experiences faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in rural America.
In a surprising and emotional moment at a dirt track race in Meeker, Harper receives an unexpected embrace from a local man and his son, after they encourage her to enjoy the race, regardless of her identity. This heartfelt exchange leaves Harper vulnerable, as she expresses her fear not of external hatred but of struggling with her own self-acceptance. The encounter underscores the complexity of emotions she experiences throughout the road trip.
5Amarillo, Texas – The Big Texan
In Amarillo, Will and Harper visit The Big Texan, a famous steakhouse known for its 72-ounce steak challenge. Will takes on the challenge while Harper faces negative social media comments by coming into the spotlight with Will. The setting is lighthearted, but the place makes them realise the darker side of fame and the scrutiny that comes with being a public figure, especially in the trans community.
Their visit to Amarillo shows how moments of levity can be mixed with deeper issues. The 72-ounce steak challenge serves as a fun distraction while the discussion about online bullying brings attention to the pressures Harper faces.
4Albuquerque, New Mexico – Hot Air Balloon Ride
Albuquerque is home to the famous hot air balloon festival, and Will and Harper take part in a balloon ride, soaring over the New Mexico landscape. This experience offers them a moment of serenity, providing a physical and emotional high point in their journey. The beauty of the landscape allows them to reflect on the many places they’ve visited so far.
The balloon ride is symbolic of the freedom Harper feels post-transition, as she and Will enjoy the peaceful experience. It’s a moment of calm in their busy road trip, providing perspective and closure to some of the more difficult conversations they’ve had along the way. Will’s excessive shouting about shutting up a dog further brings a comical essence to the experience.
3Arizona – Grand Canyon National Park
A visit to the Grand Canyon National Park provides another iconic stop on their journey. Will and Harper take in the breathtaking views, reflecting on the vastness and beauty of nature. The Grand Canyon offers a space for contemplation, and Harper expresses how her journey, like the Canyon, has been full of unexpected twists and turns. There, they meet other travelers, including a retired therapist, who contemplates on her experience in stopping a trans person from embracing their true self.
Their visit to Arizona also prompts discussions about the importance of finding peace and meaning in life’s journeys. The natural wonder of the Grand Canyon mirrors the depth of the personal transformations they have explored throughout the trip.
2Las Vegas, Nevada – SW Steakhouse
Their stop in Las Vegas is filled with glitz and glamor as they dine at the luxurious SW Steakhouse. In contrast to the more reflective moments of the trip, Las Vegas offers Will and Harper an opportunity to indulge and enjoy the city’s famous entertainment. Will decides to take a disguised persona and Harper gets all dressed up for the dinner.
Las Vegas serves as the final urban stop before they head to California, offering a mix of fun and thoughtful conversation. Their time in Vegas reflects the blend of lighthearted adventure and meaningful dialogue that has characterized their road trip.
