La Boyita is an emotionally charged Argentinean coming-of-age drama directed by Julia Solomonoff. The film follows Jorgelina, an 8-year-old girl, who is spending her summer vacation in the countryside with her father, mother, and younger sister. Jorgelina is curious, inquisitive and mischievous like any other 8-year-old, but she feels different from other girls her age. She is drawn to exploring the world of boys, fascinated by their rough games and their freedom. As she struggles to understand her own identity, Jorgelina comes across La Boyita, the name of the trailer truck that is used to transport horses, which also serves as a vehicle for self-discovery.
Throughout the course of the film, Jorgelina starts to understand her attraction towards boys, experiencing confusion and stigma from others around her. The presence of La Boyita becomes important as she finds a space where she feels free to explore and define her own sexuality, a safe haven from the judgment and pressures from others. It is a charming way for Jorgelina to escape from the realities of growing up where everything feels like it is changing too fast, and her body and mind are going through so much.
Solomonoffâs direction and the screenplay, developed with Gabriel Medina, tell Jorgelina's story with a lot of sensitivity and care, portraying her character's challenges and struggles with unwavering honesty. Cinematographer Lucio Bonelli captures beautiful landscapes and warm light that help to create an intimate and immersive atmosphere, highlighting the beautiful countryside and cool blue lakes in the picture-perfect Argentinean summer. The soundtrack features evocative music that blends into the narrative, contributing greatly to the mood of the story.
Guadalupe Alonso delivers a captivating performance as Jorgelina, the young girl at the center of the story. Her innocence and curiosity are palpable in every scene, as are the emotions she feels as she learns more about herself and the world around her. Nicolas Treise shines as Mario, a boy who becomes Jorgelina's friend and guide on her journey of self-discovery, and they share a beautiful chemistry together. Mirella Pascual's performance as Jorgelina's mother is a standout, effectively communicating the complex emotions of a mother struggling with her daughter's growth and changes.
La Boyita is an amazing coming of age story that explores themes of sexuality, gender, and identity with introspectiveness and sensitivity. It is an honest portrayal of the difficulties of growing up, and how difficult it can be for young people to understand themselves and the world around them. This film is a beautiful and moving observation of its main character, coaxing audiences to understand her journey and emotions. Itâs a heartwarming confirmation of the adage âyour body, your choiceâ and a reminder that every young person deserves the space to develop their own journey.
La Boyita is a 2009 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 29 minutes.
