Watch By Hook or by Crook

By Hook or by Crook is a 2001 independent film directed by and starring Silas Howard and co-starring Harry Dodge and Stanya Kahn. It is a unique and moving tale of two best friends, Shy and Valentine, who set out on a journey to find meaning in their lives and fulfill their dreams, despite the challenges that stand in their way. Shy, played by Silas Howard, is a soft-spoken and gentle individual who is struggling to find his place in the world. Having grown up as a girl, Shy has always felt out of place in his own body and longs to find a way to live as the man he knows himself to be. He meets Valentine, played by Harry Dodge, at a pawn shop where Valentine works, and the two become fast friends. Valentine is brash, outgoing, and fiercely independent, with a sharp wit and a self-assuredness that Shy admires.

Together, Shy and Valentine embark on a journey to find their place in the world, taking on odd jobs and meeting a cast of quirky characters along the way. They work as dog walkers, house cleaners, and construction workers, all while trying to save enough money to finance their dreams. Shy longs to have a chest reconstruction surgery that will allow him to live more fully as a man, while Valentine dreams of owning his own diner someday.

Throughout their journey, the two friends face many obstacles and challenges, both from within themselves and from the people they encounter. They struggle to find acceptance in a world that often seems determined to hold them back, and they face discrimination and misunderstanding at every turn. But despite the setbacks and disappointments, they continue on their journey, never losing sight of their dreams or of each other.

The film is notable for its raw and authentic portrayal of the queer experience, exploring the struggles and triumphs of individuals who are often marginalized and silenced in society. The characters of Shy and Valentine are complex and fully realized, with Howard and Dodge delivering powerful performances that will stay with the viewer long after the film has ended. The supporting cast is equally strong, with Stanya Kahn delivering a standout performance as a pregnant woman who befriends the two friends.

By Hook or by Crook is also notable for its innovative and experimental filmmaking techniques. The film combines elements of documentary-style filmmaking with elements of narrative storytelling, creating a unique and immersive experience for the viewer. The film uses handheld cameras and natural lighting to create a sense of intimacy and immediacy, drawing the viewer in and making them feel like they are a part of the journey.

Overall, By Hook or by Crook is a powerful and moving film that explores the complexities of gender identity, friendship, and the struggle for self-acceptance. It is a film that challenges viewers to think deeply about the nature of identity and the importance of staying true to oneself, no matter what obstacles stand in the way. It is a film that inspires hope and resilience, showing that even in the face of adversity, we can find the strength to pursue our dreams and find our place in the world.

By Hook or by Crook is a 2002 crime movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 38 minutes. It has received mostly poor reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.7 and a MetaScore of 47.