When thinking of the subject of queerness, most people do not consider gender identity at first, as the word queer is more commonly associated with sexuality. Regardless of this notion, gender identity and expression have always been an ever-present part of the queer community. What I find to be an insurmountable shame is that the LGBTQ+ community and queer identities are commonly thought to be hyper-sexual and “dirty,” making it very difficult to allow people of all ages to have access to information and media about expressing their identity. However, once in awhile, films and media will make an effort to rebel against this harmful notion and showcase young queer stories. A great example of this is Céline Sciamma’s Tomboy. This film explores the concepts of gender fluidity and exploration, alongside the deeply ingrained gender stereotypes that much of the world has accepted as “normal,” such as coding colors and interests and hobbies as gendered. These things wouldn’t be considered “normal,” without the existence of Gender Performativity, a phenomenon that we are all familiar with, but may not have the words or the name to express. Gender Performativity is materialized in acts of repetitive speech or the enforcement of certain gender stereotypes and standards. For example, a woman on a billboard in full makeup, or someone asking a female child when they will get a boyfriend. The essay “Critically Queer” by Judith Butler describes Gender Performativity in further detail stating, “Performative acts are forms of authoritative speech: most performatives, for instance, are statements which, in the uttering, also perform a certain action and exercise a binding power.” These acts are often repeated enough through time that are accepted within the collective psyche of a society.
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These acts do not go unseen, and are often the source of much pain and confusion for those who wish to rebel against societal norms. An example of this direct effect can be seen in many people thinking queer identities and media are inherently sexual and inappropriate, which makes it very difficult for children to find the information they need to explore their identities. In fact, childhood can be a very beneficial time for young people to have the freedom to explore their gender identities, with less pressures than grown adults may face. This is another reason why Tomboy was such an influential film, as it allowed visibility for children exploring their gender identity, and brought to light the struggles of children who are questioning their gender. Queer European cinema has been a good source of intimate and norm-challenging films, and Tomboy is a great example of the industry evolving to include more and more stories that many would not consider “easily digestible.” The truth is, queer stories deserve to be heard and represented ethically and fairly, without the need for constant hyper-sexuality and tragedy. As modern queer cinema continues to thrive with the help of the film festival circuit and the brave communities fighting for their voices, I believe queer stories will continue to prosper, and we will find more and more spaces to represent ourselves and show the world we are absolutely, apologetically, visible.
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