Under My Skin

Australian films are very good at tackling various subjects and getting them right without the pointless conflict and drama that so many filmmakers seem to think they need to keep their audience interested and engaged. Australian filmmakers excel at quieter films that tell a compelling story without the histrionics and pointless conflict. Under My Skin is one such movie, a story about someone who is non binary which is told in an honest and authentic way.

Watch it if you enjoy deep and intelligent filmmaking.

Saw this in Sydney. So great to finally see a film with non binary/trans characters that feels authentic. Three actors as Deny were great!

This film instantly pulled me in and kept me there. Moving, sweet, funny, intense, aesthetic, intelligent, real.

Those of trans/non-binary identity or questioning, or people who care about someone who is (or this subject in general), may be particularly interested in this film. It's an intimate study of different viewpoints, experiences, difficulties and acceptance of it all.

Wonderfully written, acted, directed. Just a gorgeous film by David O'Donnell. Many stunning performances but Alex Russell is always a standout - so talented and charismatic. Many magical moments and just a beautiful film!

This film is beautiful and heart breaking and joyful - all in one. It will revisit you over and over and you will tell people about because it will haunt you in a way you can't articulate. The most poignant part is how Ryan looks at Dan - he never skips a beat. The connection between them was palpable no matter which iteration of the character appears. Alex Russell has always shone on screen but he is particularly magnetic in this role. Well done. To everyone involved.

A very sensitive and original take on a trans/non binary story that I found utterly compelling and fresh to watch.

Great to see new and innovative ways these types of stories can be told in a market that seems close to being over-saturated in them. David does a good job in staying away from tropes and approaches that we've seen in movies of this genre before. I particularly liked his use of 4 actors to play one character; a unique way to explore identity and the dissonance between inner and outer experiences of a body that one isn't connecting with.

David is a rising voice to watch and I look forward to what films has to offer next.