Boys Don't Cry

Boys Don't Cry
Directed by	Kimberly Peirce
Written by	Kimberly Peirce
Starring	Hilary Swank
Release date	1999
Country	United States
Language	English

Boys Don't Cry is a 1999 American biographical film directed by Kimberly Peirce. The film is a dramatization of the real-life story of Brandon Teena, played by Hilary Swank, a transgender man who was raped and murdered in Nebraska in 1993. Boys Don't Cry explores themes of gender identity, transgender issues, and the struggles of being transgender in a hostile environment.

Plot

The film follows the life of Brandon Teena, a young transgender man who relocates to a small Nebraska town in hopes of living out his true identity. Brandon forms relationships, including a romantic relationship with Lana Tisdel, played by Chloë Sevigny. However, as Brandon's biological gender is revealed, he becomes the target of increasing violence from those around him.

Cast

• Hilary Swank as Brandon Teena
• Chloë Sevigny as Lana Tisdel
• Peter Sarsgaard as John Lotter
• Brendan Sexton III as Tom Nissen
• Alicia Goranson as Candace

Reception

Boys Don't Cry received critical acclaim, particularly for Hilary Swank's performance, which earned her an Academy Award for Best Actress. The film also sparked discussions on the portrayal of transgender people in media and the issues they face.

Impact and Legacy

The film is noted for its impact on raising awareness about transgender issues and has been cited as a pivotal work in transgender cinema. It has also been discussed in various academic and social contexts for its portrayal of complex themes related to gender and identity.

Awards

Boys Don't Cry won numerous awards, including the Academy Award for Best Actress for Hilary Swank, and received nominations for Chloë Sevigny at various award ceremonies.

See also

• Transgender in film and television
• LGBT rights in Nebraska
• Violence against LGBT people