SPOILERS for: Tomboy

             

   An excellent film that must been shown in all sex education classes! Tomboy is a French film about a transgender fourth grader who moves into a new town. When he goes out to play he introduces himself as Mikeal, instead of her given name Laure. Who plays soccer, capture the flag, water fights and even swims as a boy. Going to great lengths to act in a feminine way which would trigger the other kids to question the gender of their knew friend. From taking off her skirt when it gets hot to making a clay roll to stuff her cut up swim suit. Its quite amazing to see just how masculine this child appears and is so sure that Laure is not who she truly sees herself.
                  It appears that Laure's parents are alright with the fact that their first born dresses and acts in a masculine manner. Although his Father doesn't really give us an exact opinion. Making the climax all the more intriguing and unexpected. Since when we see the Mother's discomfort to her daughter's gender identity you would that this film would focus on parental acceptance, when we are left hanging.

The true climax is when Mikeal's mother finds out about the lie, making Mikeal wear a dress and then apologize to the boy who she had beat up and Lisa his female friend who had a crush on him. Who then tell all the other kids who chase him down to truly find out if the rumor was true. Lisa was given the honor to do so as she was forced to say that girls kissing was a disgusting act. Leaving us with the resolution of Mikeal reintroducing himself to Lisa, but saying Laure instead. So we never see the outcome, but are left to wonder how Laure's life will continue on from this point forward.

                  I could go on and on about all the different aspect which are capture about everyday struggles in transgender adults being caught in a child. Especially with the allusion to the abuse that is a constant fear for most Transgender and queer people. Although I liked when Mikeal was posed with the question of why she wants to be a boy he doesn't really think about it and just says thats what he wants. Since with every transgender, gender fluid and queer people I have met they don't have reason aside from "that just feels right." This film is sex positive and a must watch for anyone who doesn't know that much on transgender people. Most misconceptions and questions will be addressed. Honestly I am surprised that this isn't mandatory in school for sex education.