Review of Crazy (2000) by Chihoe H — 19 Aug 2012

"C.R.A.Z.Y." is one of the best movies from Canada and with a gay coming-of-age story that I have seen. Focusing on the Z in "C.R.A.Z.Y." in the span of 20 years from 1960 on, Zachary grows up with four other brothers, Christian, Raymond, Antoine, and Yvan, in a conservative family in rural Quebec.

Zach is different from the rest - he knows it since young, so do his parents. On top of this, he shares the same birthday as Baby Jesus and was once told he has the power to heal, and is thus seen by his devout Catholic mother as a miracle son.

From this sprouts the pains of his growing up through puberty, as he discovers his nature, deals with the intentions of his father while garnering the love of his mother, and fights the pressures from his brothers and family friends.

With its quirky introductions of Zach and his family in a voiceover narration, the beginning was very reminiscent to "Amelie". This light-heartedness evolves into something darker and more somber via its narrative and acting, but it is through this evolution that "C.

R.A.Z.Y." finds its distinct voice and strengths.