After 25 years of marriage, Roy breaks the news to his wife that he has always been a woman living in a man’s body and wants to transition
#1- Films in the category of Transgender
Normal (2003)
Director: Jane Anderson
Written by: Jane Anderson
Starring: Tom Wilkinson and Jessica Lange
I begin this review with a few details that I think may be relevant to my review and opinions. However, the topic of the film is a universal one and that is where I believe my British nationality, social and cultural upbringing should not affect my point of view. I refer more to my lack of knowledge and understanding of life in the Midwest of America and farming communities around 2003 when the film was made.
This Made-for-TV film was nominated in 15 categories during the 2003/4 award season. Normal is filmed largely inside a close religious and farming community, starting in winter time of the Midwest of America. It focuses on the lives of Roy, Irma and teenage daughter Patty-Ann, when Roy’s breaks the news that he is a woman in a man’s body. Subsequently, Roy declares his need to transition to Irma. Scenes of fields with long lines of seedlings appear throughout the film giving a sense of the passing of time throughout.
I found Normal a deeply moving, powerful and emotional film. Personally, I could relate to Roy’s issues which made the film interesting but also sad for me. The film deals with Roy’s decision to transition with great sincerity and feeling. Jessica Lange and Tom Wilkinson are well cast and give believable performances as does Hayden Panettiere in the role of their daughter. If I had one criticism of the script, it is in the way that Irma deals with life and the relationship, once knowing about Roy’s choice. I will concede, that during the span of a film, that Jane Anderson may have chosen to show positives and not just paint a picture of pain and suffering. Hence, rendering the story a little weak for me at points
Very early into the film, we go from the cozy comfort of a couple with 25 years of ‘happy marriage’ and two children, to strong scenes of emotional impact as the story deals with the revelation of Roy’s choice to transition. As we accompany Roy and Irma through their journey, the film depicts the lack of understanding and empathy Roy faces at work and socially. The church does not come out of this very well either, with the absurdity of the pastor’s advice. Although, I’m sure this was as much to show the lack of knowledge in a farming community and in general. Perhaps, why so many chose to keep their life hidden.
In conclusion, the script, casting and acting are commendable and are the reasons why it raised interest and nominations in the film industry. It shows how his daughter copes with the changes in her life in a very positive and sympathetic way. Young people are more open and willing to learn, maybe? It illustrates the intolerance of Roy’s appearance within his community. It conveys how his wife processes ‘losing’ her husband after 25 years of marriage. His perspective and the complexities that challenged him are conveyed well throughout. The impact on his family, work colleagues, and community are also convincingly painful. The compassion and love shown by his mother at the end of the film is endearing. Overall, the script, casting and acting are commendable and are the reasons why it raised interest and nominations in the film industry.
A highly recommend watch!
Sophie’s Rating: 9/10
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I found it a powerful movie too Sophie, thank you for sharing this Hon and yep, I second the recommend 🙂
Namaste’
n huggles dear
Char
Thanks Sophie,
My therapist suggested I watch this film, so I ordered a used copy, which hasn’t gotten here yet.
Living in a very rural area, she thought it would resonate with me. I appreciate your review. I was wondering if the movie would make me cry and after reading your review,I think it probably will make my eyes leak.
Heather
Hi Heather,
It made me cry so I am guessing you will too. But worth the watch.
I hope that it helps you.
Feel free to message me if you feel you need some support,
I lived in rural France for 12 years but now in a town and much happier.
Sophie
xx
Hi Sophie,
Thank you so much for your reply. That is so sweet! I have become very good friends with Char via CDH, and we have so much in common. Where I live I need all of the support I can get!
The same goes here, if you need support, I’m here for you as well. I will let you know what I thought of the film after I watch it.
Looking forward to the next video you and Char put out.
Hugs,
Heather
Episode 2 of Live Sessions will be on Sunday 27th September.
Look out for the info appearing soon, for reserving a place
xx
break out the tissues Hon hahaha its a gooder 😉
I do hope things are smoothly chugging along over there, we’ll chat soon
Namaste’
n huggles Hon
Char
Awesome
Awesome to see another film reviewed that tells a struggle that many here can relate to in terms of making the choice to be themselves. So thank you Sophie for writing this review.
Thank you Michelle for you kind words. I really enjoyed writting the review and am working on more already. My intention is to continue the theme of Transgender films which covers such a variety subjects within this complex subject. Each film offering different perspectives varying styles from, factul, personal and seven surreal. Whichever way, they bring Transgender into the limelight and present some of the struggles and strife with a range of humour, sincerity, compassion, sensitivity and perhaps educational. We can only hope that these films help others, understand why we choose this life, how it affects us as well… Read more »