Young Teena Brandon (Hilary Swank, in an incredible, Oscar-winning performance) identifies as male, even if technically born a female. This is the persona, otherwise known as "Brandon Teena", that he presents to the world. He moves to a new community, and falls in with a new circle of friends, but has only bought trouble for himself, since, when they inevitably discover his secret, they *feel* that he has done nothing but lie to them.
Inspired by a true story, this effort by co-writer / director Kimberly Peirce is a sensitive combination of character study and drama about one persons' question of sexual identity. It's helped by Peirces' compassionate handling of the subject, and strong acting in all the major roles. Chloe Sevigny plays Lana, the aimless girl with whom Brandon falls in love - and who reciprocates the sentiment. Among the other new "friends" are characters played by Alicia Goranson, Alison Folland, Peter Sarsgaard, and Brendan Sexton III. The latter two figure prominently in a finale that, while seemingly unavoidable, is still memorably dark and very hard to watch. In the end, we see what happens when this intolerance rears its ugly head.
The issues presented here are still resonant 25 years later. Peirce has created something here that should at least get some people talking, even if they do find some flaws in the presentation. "Boys Don't Cry" has its heart in the right place; it's the kind of film where viewers are not likely to walk away completely unaffected.
Eight out of 10.
Inspired by a true story, this effort by co-writer / director Kimberly Peirce is a sensitive combination of character study and drama about one persons' question of sexual identity. It's helped by Peirces' compassionate handling of the subject, and strong acting in all the major roles. Chloe Sevigny plays Lana, the aimless girl with whom Brandon falls in love - and who reciprocates the sentiment. Among the other new "friends" are characters played by Alicia Goranson, Alison Folland, Peter Sarsgaard, and Brendan Sexton III. The latter two figure prominently in a finale that, while seemingly unavoidable, is still memorably dark and very hard to watch. In the end, we see what happens when this intolerance rears its ugly head.
The issues presented here are still resonant 25 years later. Peirce has created something here that should at least get some people talking, even if they do find some flaws in the presentation. "Boys Don't Cry" has its heart in the right place; it's the kind of film where viewers are not likely to walk away completely unaffected.
Eight out of 10.
