The film tells the tragic true story of Brandon Teena (played by Hilary Swank), a transgender man who was brutally murdered in rural Nebraska in 1993. Brandon, born Teena Brandon, moves to Falls City, Nebraska, presenting as a man and forming close friendships with a group of local residents.
Brandon falls in love with Lana Tisdel (played by Chloë Sevigny), and the two begin a romantic relationship. However, as Brandon’s true gender identity is discovered by the community, tensions escalate, and violence erupts.
John Lotter (played by Peter Sarsgaard) and Tom Nissen (played by Brendan Sexton III), two acquaintances of Brandon’s, become increasingly hostile towards him after learning about his transgender identity. In a horrific act of transphobic violence, John and Tom brutally assault and rape Brandon.
Following the attack, Brandon reports the crime to the police, but he faces skepticism and discrimination from law enforcement due to his transgender identity. Despite the danger he faces, Brandon refuses to leave Falls City and continues to assert his identity as a man.
In the film’s devastating climax, John and Tom track Brandon down and brutally murder him, along with two other individuals who were present at the scene. The murders shock the community and spark national outrage, highlighting the dangers faced by transgender individuals in a society rife with prejudice and intolerance.
The film ends with a somber note, as Lana visits Brandon’s gravesite and reflects on their brief but meaningful relationship. She mourns the loss of her beloved partner and vows to honor his memory by living authentically and standing up against hate and bigotry.
“Boys Don’t Cry” is a powerful and poignant portrayal of the tragic consequences of transphobia and violence against the LGBTQ+ community. Through its raw and unflinching depiction of Brandon Teena’s life and death, the film raises important questions about identity, acceptance, and the need for social change.