Fighting to Be Me: The Dwen Curry Story

Fighting to Be Me: The Dwen Curry Story (2025) is a drama film directed by Joe Carroll rated 8.0/10.

Based on a powerful true-life story, Detroit native Dwen Curry moves to Oakland, California as a teen in the early 90s and overcomes depression, suicidal thoughts and drug addiction. He finds success as a salon owner and celebrity stylist to LisaRaye McCoy, Mariah Carey, YoYo, Missy Elliot, DMX, and more. Fueled by his desire for a lavish lifestyle and a drive to take care of those around him, Dwen leads a secret life as the criminal mastermind of an underground organization known as the Gay Gangsters, making millions from fraud. Dwen's life is even more complicated by his sexuality, identity, and struggles with self-acceptance as Dwen journeys from being a gay man to fully accepting herself as transgender. Dwen's rise to celebrity is followed by her fall when she is convicted for wire fraud and sent to prison. This coming of age tale is filled with glitz, glamour, and gangster moves as we witness Dwen's trials and eventual triumphs to survive and stand strong in her authentic truth.

Cast

A.J. Johnson

Cynthia Curry

Dyllón Burnside

Dwen Curry

D. B. Woodside

Uncle Leon

Scott Swope

Maurice Alpharicio

Dominique Toney

Greg Mathis Jr.

David Hammond

Chantal Maurice

Chanel Mack

Sal Rendino

Erika Norell