Watch Real Boy

Real Boy is a documentary following the life of 19-year-old Bennett Wallace, a transgender musician, and his journey to self-discovery. The movie focuses on the challenges and triumphs Bennett faces as he transitions from being a girl named Rachael to a boy named Bennett. The film opens up with Bennett’s childhood, his love for music, and his first realization that he was meant to be a boy when he was just 11 years old. Bennett grew up in a supportive family, and his mother, Suzy, was always aware of Bennett’s gender dysphoria. The filmmakers show the impact of her support and their relationship throughout the movie.

As Bennett moves through high school, he faces bullying and lacks the support of his peers. He becomes deeply depressed and experiments with drugs, which impacts his music and his relationship with his mother. The film captures the raw emotions and struggles Bennett goes through, including his surgery to remove his breasts.

As Bennett begins a new chapter in his life, the film takes the viewer on a journey with him as he tours with his band and meets other transgender individuals. The movie even shows Bennett’s journey to discover his biological father, who he has never met before. The trip is emotional for Bennett, as he is excited but also nervous about what he will learn about himself.

Throughout the movie, the audience gets a sense of the difficulties transgender people face, such as discrimination and exclusion. There are moments that are heartbreaking to watch as Bennett opens up about his struggles with his identity and the people in his life who don’t understand or accept him.

The film also explores the relationship between Bennett and his mother, Suzy. While Suzy is supportive of Bennett and his transition, she struggles to balance his need for independence with her desire to keep him safe. The dynamics between the two are heartwarming and showcase the strength of their bond.

Real Boy offers a unique view of the experiences of a transgender individual, as the film focuses on Bennett's everyday life struggles, rather than providing commentary on the issue. The movie offers a connection for the audience to empathize with the characters and be more aware of the struggles transgender people face.

The documentary is superbly made, with the filmmakers effectively using music to enhance the emotional impact of the scenes. The audience is taken on Bennett’s journey and is able to feel like they are right alongside him. The film’s editing, sound mixing, and cinematography all contribute to the engaging viewing experience.

In conclusion, Real Boy is a powerful and emotional documentary that provides insight into the complex world of gender identity. Bennett’s story is relatable and honest, and the movie serves as an important reminder of the struggles and triumphs within the LGBTQ community. The film is a culmination of Bennett's story, his struggles, and his journey to find a place where he is accepted for who he is. Real Boy is a must-watch for anyone who wants to be more aware of the lives of transgender individuals and an equal representation for LGBTQ rights.

Real Boy is a 2017 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 11 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.3.