Boys Don't Cry

Hillary Swank's breathtaking performance against prejudice in its most crystallized form. From this urgently presented drama, the desire for love and understanding is painfully loud, especially in the closed circle of characters and hypnotically immersive environment in which it takes place. For me, however, this environment is disrupted by an overly literal and almost unbearable escalation of hostility. Nevertheless, the multiple performances by the actors, the excellent direction by an unknown director, and the discriminatory theme leave a lasting impact. (24.07.2007)

I also considered a fifth star, but as Matty wrote in his script, the characters lack depth...The screenwriter assumed that the issue of sexual identity and an intense bloody conflict at the end would be enough for the audience, and settled for underdeveloped characters within a real criminal case. Thanks to the performances, that will suffice, Hilary Swank will have a hard time surpassing this role. Her transformation overshadowed the others - and that's a shame, because practically all the actors are good - Chloe Sevigny deserves special mention at the very least. Directorially, it is slightly above average, and among the other cinematic ingredients, quality music must be mentioned. Overall impression: 80%. (14.02.2008)

Incredibly suggestive and raw filmmaking that doesn't let the viewer breathe and then surprises them in the finale. Hilary Swank delivers a masterful performance, aided not only by a wonderfully written character but also by a significant physical transformation, including a masculine haircut. It's unbelievable the way openly sexuality and relationships are addressed here. The Oscar is in the right hands, and I believe that the Academy didn't have to think twice. (08.05.2006)

Hilary Swank is truly incredible, and I couldn't believe that an actress with such strong personal charm could portray a boy so believably. But as much she and Chloe Sevigny excel in front of the camera, Kimberley Peirce somewhat flounders behind it. The story has a strong idea and its unpleasant atmosphere easily gets deep under the skin, but the two hours drag on terribly and most of the characters are portrayed in such a way that you can hardly establish a relationship with them. After it was over, I was left with the nagging feeling that it was really all about Hilary Swank and her short haircut walking determinedly for a well-deserved Oscar, and that the rest of the film was already lost in a vague haze. For me, therefore, 3 1/2*. (11.11.2012)

I’m not a big fun of indie films from an indie environment about indie people. The last half hour is impressive, but I still can’t appreciate the annoying eternity that preceded it. What captivated me the most is how it’s possible that the characters believe Hillary Swank is a boy. She’s good in it, but… seriously? (08.06.2011)