The Boy In the Dress

Synopsis:

Based on David Walliams’ best-selling children’s book, “The Boy in the Dress” is a celebration of creativity, difference, football and fashion. Dennis feels different – an ordinary boy in an ordinary house in an ordinary street, playing football with his mates and living with his dad and brother, but frustrated by the boring grey world he inhabits. Life has never really been the same since his mum left. However, transformation can happen in the most unexpected places. Aided by Lisa, the coolest girl in the school, Dennis creates a whole new persona and puts it to the ultimate test – but can a boy wear a dress, and what will the headmaster, his dad and his friends on the football team think if they find out?

Quick Thoughts:

This BBC film is a tad on the short side at just an hour long, but it’s surprisingly good! I’ll freely admit that I have not read the book this queer family film is based upon, although other reviewers noted that it’s not the best adaptation of the story and cuts a lot of corners. Some of that is reflected in the very fast moving pace of the film. However, the crux of the story remains solid – a young boy feels different from the other boys and is questioning who he is. With the support of a surprising new friend, Dennis is encouraged to give the gender identity he better associates with a try – and initially it works! There’s a clear change in Dennis’ attitude when wearing the dress. Unfortunately, drama has to ensue and it all comes crashing down. Yet in a pleasant twist, his friends, teammates, and even Dennis’s father quickly rally behind Dennis in support. The final surprise twist is even better!

In short, “The Boy In The Dress” is a great queer family film designed to show younger children that it’s OK to embrace the gender identity that you best relate to, and also the benefits to supporting such a transition. I encourage you to give this queer family film a watch!