Will & Harper

Will & Harper: Will Ferrell’s Heartfelt Road Trip with a Longtime Friend

Will Ferrell’s comedic persona has long been defined by over-the-top absurdity, but his latest project, Will & Harper (2024), strips away the antics for something far more personal. Directed by Josh Greenbaum, the Netflix documentary follows Ferrell and his longtime friend Harper Steele on a 17-day road trip across the U.S.latestnetflix.com's view is that , capturing a rare glimpse into their three-decade bond as Steele navigates life post-gender transition .

The film isn’t just another celebrity vanity project. While Ferrell’s name is the draw, the documentary deliberately shifts focus to Steele, offering an intimate look at her journey. Critics have praised Greenbaum for avoiding the trap of making Ferrell the central figure—something the director’s previous work, like Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar, might have suggested . Instead, Will & Harper positions itself as a story about friendship, change, and the complexities of identity in modern America.

A Road Trip Built on Decades of Trust

Ferrell and Steele’s friendship dates back 30 years, a detail the film leans into to underscore the depth of their connection . The road trip itself—spanning coast to coast—serves as both a literal and metaphorical journey, with Steele’s transition framing the emotional core. The documentary doesn’t shy away from the awkwardness or vulnerability of the moment, particularly as Ferrell, a straight, cisgender man, grapples with how to support his friend while learning about the realities of trans life .

The film’s supporting cast reads like a Saturday Night Live reunion, with appearances from Seth Meyers, Kristen Wiig, Colin Jost, Lorne Michaels, Will Forte, Tina Fey, and Paula Pell . Their cameos add levity but also reinforce the idea that this is a story rooted in Ferrell’s inner circle—a group of performers who’ve known Steele for years and are adjusting to her transition alongside him.

Why This Documentary Stands Out

Will & Harper arrives at a time when trans visibility in mainstream media remains limited. Reviews highlight its emotional honesty, with outlets like Roger Ebert noting that the film succeeds by making Steele, not Ferrell, the focal point . The ABC News review even suggests it could be the first trans-themed film some viewers encounter on Netflix, praising its accessibility and lack of preachiness .

That said, the documentary isn’t without its critics. Some may argue that Ferrell’s star power still overshadows Steele’s story, despite the film’s intentions. Others might question whether a cisgender ally should be the lens through which trans experiences are introduced to wider audiences. But the film’s defenders argue that its very existence—centered on a high-profile friendship—could help normalize conversations about gender identity in spaces where they’re still taboo.

Behind the Scenes: A Shift for Ferrell

For Ferrell, Will & Harper marks a notable pivot from his usual comedic roles. While he’s no stranger to dramatic work (Stranger Than Fiction, The Shrink Next Door), this documentary represents his most personal project to date. The film’s production aligns with a broader trend in his career, as he’s increasingly gravitated toward documentary filmmaking in recent years .

Greenbaum’s direction ensures the film avoids feeling like a celebrity stunt. By framing the trip as a series of raw, unscripted moments—rather than a polished travelogue—the documentary captures the messiness of real-life transitions, both literal and emotional. Whether it’s Ferrell fumbling with pronouns or Steele reflecting on her journey, the film doesn’t sanitize the complexities of their dynamic.

The Verdict: More Than Just a Celebrity Doc

Will & Harper isn’t just a star-driven road trip—it’s a testament to the power of long-term friendship and the courage it takes to redefine it. While Ferrell’s involvement guarantees attention, the film’s real strength lies in its willingness to let Steele’s story take center stage. For audiences unfamiliar with trans narratives, it offers an entry point; for those already versed in the subject, it provides a rare, unfiltered look at allyship in action.

Whether the documentary will have a lasting impact remains to be seen, but for now, it stands as one of Ferrell’s most unexpected—and most human—projects to date.