Watch Just Charlie
- NR
- 2017
- 1 hr 37 min
-
6.9 (933)
Just Charlie is a coming-of-age drama about the journey of a young trans teenager named Charlie, played by Harry Gilby, who struggles with his identity in a world that has rigid societal norms for gender. The film, directed by Rebekah Fortune, takes us through the emotional roller-coaster ride of Charlie's journey towards self-discovery and acceptance.
Charlie is a talented football player, and his father, played by Scot Williams, is a former football player coaching the local team. His father wants him to follow his footsteps and achieve fame, but Charlie's fascination is more towards dresses and makeup. Charlie's mother, played by Patricia Potter, has a different perspective on Charlie and supports him more than his father does. However, Charlie's parents are unaware of their child's gender identity struggle.
Charlie's story begins when he gets picked as the captain for his football team, but he does not attend the game. Instead, he sneaks off to a nearby park, and we see him trying on some dresses that he hid inside his backpack. His happiness and comfort in wearing the dress are evident, but things take a turn when his dad catches him in his acts.
After the confrontation, Charlie's father takes him to a therapist thinking that it is a psychological disorder, but Charlie confides in the therapist about his gender dysphoria. The therapist guides them to a support group for people with gender identity struggles, and thatâs where Charlie finally finds solace in the company of people like him.
Throughout the movie, we see the difficulties Charlie faces due to his gender identity, both inside and outside of the sport. Even though he's talented, his teammates cannot accept him for who he is, resulting in his exclusion from the team.
We see Charlie struggling with his identity, keeping it a secret from his family, and feeling alone as none of his teammates accept him. The film shows how Charlie's persistence and courage teach him to be comfortable in his own skin, how he learns to accept himself and pursue his interests.
The film's cast is stellar in bringing the characters to life on screen. Harry Gilby, who plays Charlie, does an amazing job of displaying a complex range of emotions required of this kind of role. His interaction with his friends, family, and therapists is very convincing, bringing to life the struggles of people who feel trapped in the wrong body.
Scot Williams, who plays the father, exemplifies how hard it is for a father to let go of his preconceived ideas for his child's future and accept who they are. He portrays this with utmost sincerity, avoiding any clichéd judgment towards Charlie. Patricia Potter, who plays the mother, brings a balance to the film's depiction of Charlie's troubles. She has an understanding of her child, even before he comes out to her, and when he does, she is always just a touch away, which gives Charlie much strength and support.
In conclusion, Just Charlie is a heart-warming and authentic depiction of gender identity, and the challenges one faces while coming out in a conservative society. The film is exceptional in the way it handles Charlie's story, with sensitivity and respect for those going through similar struggles. The journey is well-paced and exciting to watch, without any dull moments or forced characters. Just Charlie is sure to leave you inspired to embrace your true self, flaws and all.
Just Charlie is a 2017 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 37 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.9.