F06 :: Feminist Film Studies

The story of Teena Brandon is such a tragedy. The fact that this incident took place should break anyone's heart. The fact that it took place in a small town, however, I think is not a topic of importance. True security is higher and acceptance is more likely in a larger town or city but this hatred towards homosexuals and transgenders is found in every size town in America. It is truly unfortunate that this is the case. However, with the emotion and truth portrayed in this film, Kimberly Pierce does a good job at bringing the story to the publics attention in an appropriate and respectable manner. Watching this terrible hate crime reenacted is much more affective than a documentary would have been. Where a documentary would tell the story completely factual, it would not give the same images and character connection that a film can give.

While watching Boys Don't Cry, the viewer is introduced to the characters and given a chance to feel their emotions along with them. When Brandon's true identity comes out towards the end, viewers can't help but be intrigued and hurt by the events that take place. For one to watch this movie and witness the tragedy, they become educated and are likely to be affected by how horrible this hatred really is and how unnecessary it is within our society. To see this film in it's entirety gives people the realization of American society can change. It is not necessary for a viewers opinions on homosexuality to change but it should be noted how ridiculous it is to hate someone so strongly for their way of life.