Romeos

It is becoming really scarce that an indie film has this kind of execution. Good actors, good dialogue, a plot that is like nothing else you've seen. The movie focuses on the identity crisis of a trans person, but then it shows you that the identity crisis, often isn't coming from the person themselves (they're actually pretty sure of what gender they belong to) but its the world who has the real crisis, the people around you, friends, family who are supposed to support you. The way the main character keeps fighting to find his place, it was heartbreaking and just really touching. We see the transformation too, and its just brilliant. I was completely amazed.

I'm going to be honest, I put of watching this movie for several months for multiple reasons, the most important one being the fact that I was unsure if I would even enjoy "Romeos".

I'm a gay transman myself and let's be honest, there aren't a lot of movies who even deal with transgender issues, yet alone the issues gay transmen face. (At this point I'd like to point out that the right word to use in this context is either "trans" or "transgender", most of the reviews on here use the word "trangendered", which is incorrect, in the same way a blind person is not "blinded". Anyway, moving on...)

I won't summarize the plot, considering it is probably the weakest aspect of the movie. To put it simple: It's a love story with lots of teenage drama. Instead I would like to emphasize that I was honestly impressed by Rick Okon's work as an actor. Sure, I would have preferred an actor who's actually trans, but I still thought Okon's performance was great. It was obvious that this was a role he really prepared for, the awkward posture is something I always catch myself doing, it was almost a perfect reenactment.

Most other issues for transmen were also portrayed accurately, constant fear of being found out, people accusing you of being egoistic, stupid questions, having to fight for your rights etc. Yes, some of it was different from my own experience, but that's the thing, there is not one universal experience. (However, two things were simply wrong/outdated. First, transmen usually don't do their own shots in Germany but have it mostly done by a nurse, but I suppose doing your own shots seems "cooler". Second, you can now change your gender marker without any surgeries, but this might have not been the case when the movie was released.)

The only thing I truly disliked was the constant focus on sex. Yes, the gay scene can be quite sexual, but there are obviously lots of gay men who think differently. Oh, and another things: There are definitely better ways to flatten your chest. I was constantly frustrated because the binder Lukas used was just horrible. I suppose it would have erased some of the plot points but it was just frustrating to watch, knowing that there are way better and more functioning alternatives.

Overall, I would definitely recommend this movie, especially to someone who has little knowledge of transgender issues.

...not only for delicate subject. But for delicate use of it. Because, scene by scene, it becomes a parable. Or just a poem. A young man. A relation. And a secret. Defining the others more than him. A film about a form of survive. And about the need to be yourself. And, sure, about the courage. It is not easy or fair to write about it. Because it is different and defined more by nuances. And, sure, because to see it is the basic way for discover the profound moving confession about yourself and the others and the borders betweem that. Short, a brave film. In so nuanced way.

Pleasantly surprised. Wonderful movie that may help one understand and clarify the concept of gender/sexual identity and sexual attraction/orientation; and how the one is not the same as the other.

Wonderful, sweet and enjoyable movie. Rick Okon is great!

Sabine Bernardi has nailed a fierce, tight, dramatic and moving story with this outstanding and challenging film. Can't say enough about the acting, directing and filming of this movie.

I'm always wowed when the lead character is a whole human being - i.e., not perfect, but flawed and challenged - and you are still compelled to fall in love with that character. Mix that with a topic as difficult for some people (including myself for a large part of my life) as the subject of transgender (and do it well) and it results in a first-class story.

Both leads are very good in this story, but Fabio, our lead's romantic interest, is really a backdrop and context for the voyage of self-discovery for the lead, Lukas. The mingling of the process of making the transition from female to male and the growing romance between the two leads is amazing, supple and moving.

This is one of the most unique and get-under-your-skin films I've ever seen.