Real Boy – Iris Prize Best Feature 2016
DIRECTOR:
Shaleece Haas
RELEASE YEAR:
2016
Bennett Wallace is a charismatic teenager on the brink of adulthood. As he navigates the ups and downs of gender transition and grapples with a history of substance abuse, Bennett embarks on a journey to find his voice—as a musician, a friend, a son, and a man.
Filmed over four years, Real Boy follows the evolution of Bennett’s relationship with his mother Suzy, who has deep misgivings about his transition. As Suzy struggles to come to terms with his decision, Bennett is taken under the wing of his idol Joe Stevens, a celebrated transgender musician fighting his own demons.
Through observational storytelling that is alternately painful and heartwarming, Real Boy explores the complexity of addiction, the healing power of music, and the importance of family, both given and chosen.