Film “Boys Don't Cry” Essay

Boys Don't Cry is an American romantic drama film. It is based on a true story of the life of Brandon Teena (Hillary Swank) a transgender man. When he is discovered to be transgender by one of his girlfriends, he becomes a victim of violence. He is later evicted from his cousin's trailer and he moves Nebraska. Here he becomes friends with John Lotter (Peter Sarsgaad) and Tom Nissen (Brendan Sexton). Brandon being a charmer falls in love with Lana Tisdel (Chloe Sevigny) who is unaware that he is transgender.
Brandon's past haunts when he is arrested for past charges. The police place him in the women's section which triggers questions among his friends and Lana. He reassures Lana by explaining to her that he was born hermaphrodite. His friends Tom and John doubt him and they force him to reveal his genitals while Lana is present. After the confrontation, they take him to an isolated place where they beat and violate him. He escapes through a window but they pursue him in his hideout in Candace's (Alicia Goranson) house where they shoot and kill him.
Soldier's Girl synopsis
This is a 2003 Canadian-American drama film. It based on a true story of the life Barry Winchell who falls in love with calpernia Addams. Barry (Troy Garity) is a soldier in the USA army while Calpernia (Lee pace) is a showgirl at a transgender club in Tennessee. One night Barry and roommate Justin Fisher (Shawn Hatosy) and other soldiers visit the transgender club where Calpernia works. Barry and Calpernia notice each other and later go out to several dates. Fisher, Barry's friends and roommate who has a drug problem grows jealousy and angry with Barry has he continues with his relationship with Calpernia. Fisher starts spreading rumors about Barry's relationship and sexuality. The drill sergeant (Barclay Hope) takes it upon himself to identify the gay soldier which is a contravention of the military's policy of 'don't ask, don't tell'. This exposes Barry to harassment and violence. The violence escalates on the Fourth of July weekend after Barry beats Calvin Glover (Philip Eddolls) in a fight. Fisher goads Calvin Glover with a baseball which he uses to beat and kill Barry in his sleep.
The value of these movies to the transgender clients and family members
These two movies are important, in sense that they highlight the challenges faced by transgender persons. The movies will enable the families of these individuals to understand problems and challenges faced by transgender individuals. Moreover, they will make them realize the horrible things that people out there can do to transgender individuals as they view them as queer and abnormal. Hence after watching these two films families will be able to appreciate and love their transgender siblings regardless of their sexuality and whom they choice to love.Also the movies encourage the transgender individuals to take heart in their struggles and challenges. Family members should support transgender individuals, this helps to boost their self esteem.