'XXY', 2007

I actually had to watch ‘XXY’ for a women’s studies class in college (titled ‘Global Gays in the Global Gaze - it was a pretty awesome class). Made by the Argentine director Lucía Puenzo, the movie follows Alex, who was born with both male and female genitalia (also known as intersex), and raised as a girl by their parents, Suli and Kraken. The family has recently moved from Argentina to an isolated house in Uruguay, and the adjustment hasn’t been easy for Alex, who stopped taking their corticoid pills (which control their hormones). Suli invites her Argentinian friends Erika and Ramiro to stay with them, so that Ramiro, a plastic surgeon, can meet Alex. And with these friends comes their teenaged son, Alvaro. To the chagrin of Kraken (the only parent who knows), a sexual relationship begins to blossom between the two teenagers - but not in a conventional way.

Some things I liked: As I rewatched this film without having to pay as close attention as before, I was able to appreciate its message even more. Alex is a unique character, at least from what I’ve seen so far in queer cinema, but I think they would likely be an inspiration for many gender-nonconforming people. Puenzo is a female filmmaker, and some of her other works also focus on queer and/or intersex characters. In this film, she provokes the audience to question what constitutes a ‘perfect’ body, or a normal development of gender and sexuality.

Some things I didn’t like: As a queer person, it can be frustrating to constantly be faced with movies about queer people who almost always end up hurt, sexually assaulted, or murdered. Alex faces some bullies (and worse) in this movie. But this isn’t the ending or the main point of Puenzo’s film; the violent scene in ‘XXY’ is representative of the unfortunate reality that many trans and GNC people face, in societies that are not accepting of them. One aspect that kept my spirits bolstered was the unwavering love from her parents. Though Suli and Kraken may not always know the best way to support Alex (and sometimes make it worse with their behavior), they always listen to their child.

The five words I would use to describe this film: Intense, moving, bold, determined, inspiring.

My queer take: Alex is a character you can’t help but like, and their unflinching confidence (and almost indifferent attitude towards their identity) adds a heartening note to a not-always-uplifting movie (as does Kraken’s dedication towards his only child). The movie earned an 80% from viewers on Rotten Tomatoes viewers (and is certified ‘fresh’ by critics as well, who gave it an 84).

CW: sexual assault and verbal abuse, transmisogyny

Where to watch: Unfortunately the movie is no longer available on Amazon Prime, as it was when I watched it for class. However, it can be purchased on Amazon or iTunes (or bootlegged, if you’re the type to do that!).

Don't be alarmed - in this scene, Alex is sleeping.

Title explanation: The film’s title is another name for Klinefelter syndrome, a chromosomal condition that occurs when people with XY chromosomes (typically identifying as males) are born with an extra X chromosome that may lead to the development of typically 'female' sex characteristics.