Review of Boys Don't Cry (1999) by Tony G — 06 Aug 2012
Kimberly Peirce spoke about this film and the ratings it received in the doc This Film Is Not Yet Rated. She had to shorten a couple scenes in order to be granted an R rating. This movie deals with topics that many people still can't handle.
Teena sexually identifies as a man and chooses to go by the name Brandon. He (exceptionally played by Swank) tries to start anew and forms a relationship with Lana (Sevigny in a controlled performance).
The story is hard hitting. It explores sexuality and trust and abuse. Peter Sarsgaard, as the low-life John, plays an absolutely terrifying character. There are only brief moments when it appears that Brandon's chosen life may end happily, but it is tragic in the end.
It has been nearly 20 years since the real life incidents dramatized in this movie occurred and it is troublesome that very little has changed. There have been a couple other transgendered characters in TV and movies since, but has the public gained much more understanding for those dealing with gender identity issues? Peirce captures rural Nebraska as an isolated and booze-filled place.
Often at night the fuzzy glare of lights mirrors the strain of making connections, staying safe and seeing clearly.
This review of Boys Don't Cry (1999) was written by Tony G on 06 Aug 2012.
Boys Don't Cry has generally received very positive reviews.
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