Denial falls squarely into a long tradition of documentaries that start by examining one subject before an unexpected twist complicates and enriches the initial investigation. Starting out as an important exploration of energy use and abuse, the film soon takes a sharp turn into the politics of gender identity. The energy debate and transgender issues, two thorny topics that at first glance seem miles apart, are ultimately united by the struggles of one man trying to confront issues that most people would prefer to ignore.