Review of XXY (2007) by Mark A — 01 Nov 2010

A sensitive film that deals with an uncomfortable subject and handles it with quiet dignity. A family moves from their native Argentina to a remote area of Uruguay in order to shield their "daughter" from ridicule over her abnormal physical attributes.

But things have reached a point where the "girl" must choose whether to continue to live her life as a female or embrace her masculine identity. The shame of the parents and the agony that Alex faces as she makes her choice is what provides the conflict in the story.

Complicating the process is another young man facing his own sexual identity issues of a different sort being thrust into the already stressed family environment. The director could have emphasized all of the more prurient aspects of the central dilemma, but chose a more subtle approach and therefore allowed the viewer to fully empathize with the struggles these two teens face.

Strong characters, a solid story and very few false notes made what could have been a difficult film a very thought provoking experience. In the end, we have a clear idea of the decisions that have been made and we understand that the roads chosen will not be easy.