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Real Boy

Name: Real Boy
Director: Shaleece Haas
Released: 2016
Duration: 72 min

Representation Score

7.1/10

Good

2016

Director

Shaleece Haas

Runtime

72 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Real Boy is a progressive documentary that goes beyond simple inclusion by centering transgender identity. It explores the complexities of transition through both personal and intergenerational perspectives. The film excels in showcasing the friction within family units and the significance of mentorship within the LGBTQ community. By following Bennett's journey alongside Joe Stevens, it provides a roadmap for identity that emphasizes personal ability to act.

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Category Breakdown

Does Real Boy have LGBTQ+ representation?

Excellent

The film focuses on Bennett Wallace, a transgender teenager, and uses his transition to explore themes of self-discovery and navigating society. It avoids relegating his identity to a secondary plot point.

How does Real Boy portray gender?

Excellent

The documentary challenges traditional gender hierarchies by documenting Bennett's pursuit of manhood on his own terms. It examines the tension between his identity and his parents' expectations.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Real Boy?

Good

The film recognizes the intersection of race and gender within a specific cultural context. However, the main focus remains on the transgender experience.

How does Real Boy represent religion and culture?

Excellent

The narrative dismantles traditional family structures by highlighting the conflict between parental views and a child's evolving identity. It prioritizes personal autonomy over established social or religious norms.

Does Real Boy include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no explicit depiction of physical or neurodivergent disabilities in the film.

Present on Screen

Focuses on transgender identity as the core narrative rather than a side plot.
Highlights the importance of intergenerational mentorship through Joe Stevens.
Challenges traditional gender hierarchies by documenting a unique pursuit of manhood.
Offers a nuanced view of the breakdown of traditional nuclear families.

Limited or Absent

The primary focus remains heavily on gender, with less emphasis on racial the way different parts of someone's identity overlap.
There is no visible representation of physical or neurodivergent disabilities.

Official Synopsis

REAL BOY is the coming-of-age story of Bennett Wallace, a transgender teenager on a journey to find his voice-as a musician, a friend, a son, and a man. As he navigates the ups and downs of young adulthood, Bennett works to gain the love and support of his mother, who has deep misgivings about her child's transition. Along the way, he forges a powerful friendship with his idol, Joe Stevens, a celebrated transgender musician with his own demons to fight.

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