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Review

One of the best films of 1999, this fictionalized drama focuses on the tragic real–life story of Brandon Teena, a biological woman (Teena Brandon) who decided quite early to live her life as a man—a decision he paid for with his life. Hilary Swank, in an Oscar Winning performance, is riveting as Brandon, a sweet, but far–from–perfect 21–year–old drifter who just simply wanted to be a boy and love women—and have them love him. The harrowing tale, set in a trailer trash Nebraska town, follows Brandon as he befriends and moves in with a group of poor but fun–loving people. He also falls in love with Lana (Chloë Sevigny in an equally impressive performance), a tough–talking gal who finally meets a man who respects her and treats her right. But when Brandon is exposed as a woman, ignorance, fear, and homophobia drives two of her male friends to violently confront him. Unflinching in its depiction of the working class environment and complex in its handling of all of the characters, the film humanizes a person whose only crime was to express his true sexual identity. An unforgettable film experience directed with compassion and passion by lesbian Kimberly Peirce. After watching Boys Don't Cry, you'll be enthralled with the true–life documentary on Brandon titled, The Brandon Teena Story.