kinseydude
This is the small, independent-film love story that the big studios are afraid to make. Luckily, it succeeds as only a small-budget, small-town affair can.A very well-acted foursome explores trans romance in an small Kentucky town, and the whole thing looks to have been filmed in someone's back yard, with four or five sets, total, but with the acting ability and excellent story line of a poignant and beautiful story. We meet Michelle as a 21-year-old aspiring designer, and only gradually learn of her past as a boy and her transgender journey as a teenager. Jimmy is seemingly her best, straight friend, her buddy and bro, until he realizes he's jealous of Michelle's affection for Francesca. Francesca herself is the daughter of a politician, fiancée of a soldier in Afghanistan, and one-time lover, almost in spite of herself, of Michelle. The soldier, in one surprise, returns from the middle east to marry Francesca, but, in a second surprise, turns out already to have his own secretive past with Michelle.All of this unfolds with bravery and beauty, without a false note and with an affecting ending that never preaches, as it teaches, southern, small-town tolerance. It even has one brief scene of pro-operative, transgender nudity, answering some viewers' questions about the actress, as it lovingly respects the trans* folks among us. It's ultimately too bad more people won't see this amazing little film--it's the kind of picture the big-budget studios _should_ be doing more of.
Saskia
When I first showed interest in this film it seemed to be an unknown mid twenties typical predictable romantic comedy. I was most certainly proved wrong. The statement about 'Boy Meets Girl' being one of the best films I have ever seen is an understatement really. It is long overdue to see some representation of a member of the LGBTQI+ community being portrayed in a way that deviates from the stereotypical way that has become almost a trend in current media. Having a trans girl protagonist is so refreshing and while some moments were typical - I believe this was because almost all members of the LGBTQI+ community experience the same general stigma from society - there were flourishes of pure narrative originality in terms of this topic that can only be described as 'refreshing'. I constantly had my mouth dropping open at unexpected twists and "omg" moments. At the same time as being realistic to the point that the story was relatable but not mundane,this film offered an originality I have not seen in any film thus far - and I have watched a fair few in my short years - which may be accountable to the casting of a trans actress in the leading role. The acting was second to none, being a fan of Michael Welch I was not disappointed at all. Using that age old cliché; I was well a truly kept on my toes. I will be recommending this film to any and all fellow film fanatics I talk to and will be watching it as many times as Netflix will allow me to!
B.g. Thomas
What a great movie. I was feeling down and blue and wanted to watch something that would make me feel better. And BOY did I choose a perfect picture. I love how it tells us that all of us, no matter who and what we are, often feel confused and wondering about our place in the world. Ricky just has it a little harder than most of us. Even me, a gay man. I was especially happy that a real transgendered actress played the part of Ricky. This is a pretty powerful story. It's not a ten, but it is pretty darned close! I will be watching out for more movies directed (and written) by Eric Schaeffer and movies staring Michelle Hendley.
Gina
This was the most beautiful movie I have seen in years. Wonderful message of acceptance for the young (teenagers) and old. I think that the US desperately needed this movie right now and the world can really benefit from it too.Also, what a fantastic and fearless lead actress! I can't wait to see more work of her and other transgender actors.Overall, a bittersweet story of the struggles of life as a transgender person who is trying to fit into our society. It leaves you wrapped around a fuzzy feel-good feeling.Go watch it, you will not regret it.
AD
