Beautiful Boxer |
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Sunday, October 17, 7:00pm Growing up, Nong Toom knows to keep some things (such as his penchant for lipstick) a secret. It’s clear that he’s not like the other boys. But early on, he shows a natural talent for kick-boxing, which gives him the opportunity to win prize money to help support his family. The prizes are his incentive to fight, but it’s his determination and courage, instilled mostly by his mother and other women in his life, that makes him succeed. Surprisingly, when he is caught putting on makeup one day, he is encouraged to wear it in the ring for publicity. While allowing him to express his feminine side, wearing makeup in the ring also sets him apart in the macho sport, his opponents hate him, but the crowds love him as he emerges victorious fight after fight. But he has a personal goal: to earn enough prize money to bring him closer to the expensive operation that will reconcile his long-felt inner conflict: “My body is that of a fighter, but in my heart I am a woman.” A breathtaking and inspiring debut feature, BEAUTIFUL BOXER is based on the remarkable true story of one of Thailand’s most celebrated kick-boxers. Nong Toom’s extraordinary story draws its strength from the simple yet powerful message: “Be true to yourself.” BEAUTIFUL BOXER; Ekachai Uekrongtham, director;
2003; Thailand; 116 minutes; 35mm (in Thai and English with English
subtitles) |
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