Review of Boys Don't Cry (2000) by Lito B — 01 Sep 2008

This is truly phenomenal piece of filmmaking. Made as a graduate school thesis, this intense and relevant true story chronicles the last fateful years of Brandon Teena, a young woman who preferred to live her life identifying as a man.

At the time unknown actress Hilary Swank delivers a show-stopping, gutsy and Oscar-winning performance as Brandon, a dreamer, a lover, a waif, and someone who wants to find love and acceptance in a close-minded world.

Her love interest is played with equal brilliance by Chloe Sevigny who received an Oscar nomination for her portrayal. Conflict comes into the light when Brandon's new friends suspect that maybe he is really a she.

Brandon Teena met with a gruesome end by being raped and murdered in 1993. A more poignant and higher question arises through this film. What is Brandon really? Is there truly a way to define gender so simply? This film is unnerving and intensely thought-provoking.

This film;'s haunting portrayal of intolerance and prejudice is stunning. The cast is perfect and the performances realistic and vivid. This is a film that should be shown in all high schools and should not be missed for any reason.