Performing Brandon: Gender and sexual performativity in Kimberly Peirce’s Boys Don’t Cry

Winaya Nidaan Khofia; Eni Nur Aeni; Ririn Kurnia Trisnawati

doi:10.30595/pjh.v1i2.338

Authors

Winaya Nidaan Khofia Universitas Jenderal Soedirman
Eni Nur Aeni Universitas Jenderal Soedirman
Ririn Kurnia Trisnawati Universitas Jenderal Soedirman

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.30595/pjh.v1i2.338

Keywords:

perfomativity, gender identity, sexual identity, transgender.

Abstract

This study explores Brandon Teena's fluidity of gender and sexual identity through the lens of gender performativity, as depicted in the film Boys Don't Cry (1999). This research is driven by an interest in how cinema represents the construction of gender identity, specifically how transgender characters negotiate societal expectations through performance. Using Judith Butler's theory of gender performativity, this study examines how Brandon constructs his gender and sexual identity through his appearance, behavior, and interactions, revealing gender as a performative act shaped by repetition and social norms. Qualitative descriptive methods are used, focusing on film analysis to interpret visual and narrative elements such as costume, body movement, dialogue, and cinematography. This study also draws on Brannon and David's theory of masculinity to classify the types of masculinity Brandon performs in a rigid and homophobic environment. In order to support the data, the researcher collects information from diverse sources such as articles, journals, books, and online references that pertain to the gender and sexual performativity experience that Brandon Teena experienced. The findings of this study are expected to shed light on how Butler's gender performativity theory was applied to Brandon Teena's gender and sexual performativity in the film as a transgender character. This study is also practical in terms of providing insight into the topic of gender and sexual performativity in society, as well as allowing Brandon to personally experience how he feels about himself and society.

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