บิวตี้ฟูล บ๊อกเซอร์ “Beautiful Boxer” is a 2003 Thai biographical sports drama film directed by Ekachai Uekrongtham. The film is based on the real-life story of Nong Thoom, a transgender Muay Thai boxer who underwent a gender reassignment surgery to become a woman.
Synopsis:
The film follows the life of Nong Thoom, who is born as a boy in a rural village in Thailand. As a child, Nong Thoom loves to wear dresses and play with dolls, which creates conflict with his father, who wants him to become a boxer. Despite his father’s wishes, Nong Thoom starts training in Muay Thai and becomes a skilled fighter. However, he also struggles with his gender identity and begins to question his place in society.
As Nong Thoom grows older, he decides to undergo gender reassignment surgery to become a woman. The film then follows her journey as she faces discrimination and prejudice in the male-dominated sport of Muay Thai. Nong Thoom perseveres and becomes a champion, earning the respect of her peers and fans.
Review:
“Beautiful Boxer” is a moving and inspiring film that tackles important themes of gender identity, acceptance, and perseverance. The film does an excellent job of portraying the struggles and challenges that Nong Thoom faces as a transgender person in a society that often discriminates against those who are different. The film also showcases the beauty and grace of Muay Thai, which is a central part of Thai culture.
The performances in the film are excellent, especially Asanee Suwan, who portrays Nong Thoom with sensitivity and authenticity. The film’s cinematography is also stunning, capturing the vibrancy and energy of Thailand.
Awards:
“Beautiful Boxer” received several awards and nominations, including:
- Best Feature Film at the Bangkok International Film Festival
- Best Actor (Asanee Suwan) at the Thailand National Film Association Awards
- Best New Director at the Thailand National Film Association Awards
- Audience Award for Best Feature Film at the Philadelphia International Gay and Lesbian Film Festival.
| Directed by | Ekachai Uekrongtham |
|---|---|
| Written by | Desmond Sim Ekachai Uekrongtham |
| Produced by | Ekachai Uekrongtham |
| Starring | Asanee Suwan, Sorapong Chatree, Orn-Anong Panyawong, Nukkid Boonthong, Sitiporn Niyom, |
| Cinematography | Choochart Nantitanyatada |
| Music by | Amornbhong Methakunavudh |
| Distributed by | GMM Pictures Regent Releasing (US) TLA Releasing |
| Release date | November 28, 2003 (Thailand) February 7, 2004 (Berlin) |
| Running time | 118 minutes |
| Country | Thailand |
| Languages | Thai English Japanese |
