Review of Boys Don't Cry (2000) by Jake P — 23 Nov 2018
Boys Don't Cry was released six years after the assault and murder of Brandon Teena, a stealth trans man who was attacked when friends realised he was not a cis man. It was intended both as a testament to his life and identity, as well as a protest against hate crimes and trans bashings.
Where it fails is in the depiction of horrific violence and sexual assault, which is shown not with transgender audiences in mind, but rather cisgender audiences, evidencing a voyeuristic quality so common in queer films.
It was a very important film to be made at the time of release, but should be understood as an outdated relic that should not set an example of prime representation in the media from now on. Also inappropriate is the unchallenged reactions of audiences who insist on referring to Brandon as a woman.
It makes sense for it to have been critically acclaimed when it came out, but I would never, ever recommend a trans person go and see this film.
This review of Boys Don't Cry (2000) was written by Jake P on 23 Nov 2018.
Boys Don't Cry has generally received very positive reviews.
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