Boys Don't Cry Poster

Boys Don't Cry 1995

20 min📅 1995-01-01

Kimberly Peirce's raw and poignant 1995 short film, *Boys Don't Cry*, lays the emotional groundwork for the acclaimed 1999 feature that brought the story of Brandon Teena to wider audiences.

Director: Kimberly Peirce

Cast

Anna Grace
Anna Grace
Teena Brandon / Brandon Teena
Angela Marie Baker
Kate
Sean Sweeney
Tom
Adria Tennor
Adria Tennor
Justin Zackham
Natalie Zea
Natalie Zea
Lana Tisdel

Frequently Asked Questions

What is *Boys Don't Cry (1995)* about?

This short film introduces the early life of Brandon Teena, a young person confronting gender identity in a hostile environment. It explores their journey of self-discovery, love, and the tragic consequences of intolerance long before the 1999 feature brought their story to prominence.

Who directed *Boys Don't Cry*?

Kimberly Peirce directed this 1995 short film, which served as the foundation for her groundbreaking 1999 feature.

Who stars in *Boys Don't Cry*?

The short film features Anna Grace, Angela Marie Baker, Sean Sweeney, Adria Tennor, and Justin Zackham in key roles.

Is *Boys Don't Cry (1995)* worth watching?

While this short film is a condensed version of Brandon Teena's story, its raw emotional power and Kimberly Peirce's direction make it a compelling watch for fans of intense, character-driven dramas. It's a must-see for those interested in the themes of identity and resilience that define the full-length feature.

How long is *Boys Don't Cry*?

The runtime of *Boys Don't Cry (1995)* is approximately 20 minutes.

About Boys Don't Cry (1995) — The Short Film That Started a Movement

Kimberly Peirce's raw and poignant 1995 short film, *Boys Don't Cry*, lays the emotional groundwork for the acclaimed 1999 feature that brought the story of Brandon Teena to wider audiences. This 20-minute drama dives into themes of identity, resilience, and the harsh realities faced by those who defy societal expectations. Through stark visuals and intimate storytelling, Peirce explores the struggles of a young person navigating love and acceptance in a world that refuses to understand them. The short film captures a sense of urgency and vulnerability, mirroring the larger fight for authenticity in a society that often punishes difference.

Set against a backdrop of small-town Nebraska, *Boys Don't Cry (1995)* introduces audiences to a narrative that blends crime and romance, where personal freedom clashes with brutal intolerance. The film's atmosphere is heavy with tension, yet it pulses with a quiet, heartbreaking humanity. Peirce's direction and the performances in this short film set the stage for the powerful themes that would later resonate in the full-length feature, making it a compelling watch for fans of intense, character-driven dramas.