Review of Boys Don't Cry (1999) by Alex R — 09 Feb 2011

Boys Don't Cry is the incredible true story of Teena Brandon who was born biologically female but who decided to become male. The story chronicles how she changed her identity and has fallen in love and made new friends. Unknown to her friends, Brendans true identity is unknown. They treat him like a friend. Unfortunately his true identity is revealed and both two of his friends John and Tom, two ex-convicts do the unthinkable. Boys Don't Cry is a flawed film, as by what I hear isn't 100% accurate, but the film does have enough good elements to tell this poignant story about Brandon Teena.

Born Teena Brandon, Brandon had a desire to be male, and dared to be different. This is a film that can bring hope to people who don't have the courage to be themselves, hopefully this film may inspire them. Hilary Swank is simply terrific, and she really does look like Brandon Teena. She brings enthusiasm to the role and her on screen presence makes this film better than it really is. Boys Don't Cry is really a film about the courage about being yourself. Brandon Teena was a trans gender who was born a biological female but felt more like a boy. He makes new friends in Falls City, Nebraska and meets a girl. Everything seems to be perfect, but soon Brandon's secret is revealed. His two "friends" John and Tom rape Brandon after finding out he's actually a female. The scene is truly disturbing and makes you feel uneasy. Unfortunately Brandon also gets murdered due to the fact that he's different. The film gives an insight of bigotry and homophobia and how hate can sometimes lead people to do the unthinkable. A phenomenal, poignant film, Boys Don't Cry is a well crafted film.