"What a brave and unusual romantic comedy. Thank God the BBC is still open-minded enough for such projects, which are not only important, but ultimately wonderfully entertaining. At the core of the boy-meets-girl, who used to be one of his mates at school, now transsexual, love story is Steven Mackintosh, who portrays Karl-now-Kim with such dignity and style that this film never feels sticky or cumbersome, as one might fear going into it.Rupert Graves plays the bad-boy "Prentice" with such charm that one thoroughly understands why Kim allows her new-found, quiet life to be turned upside down. He shows Kim that finding the right gender doesn't necessarily make you a whole person...That comes from conviction and caring. It requires passion - something he's full of and is able to rekindle in his old schoolmate. And who knows...maybe she'll get him to change his socks daily!Thoroughly charming!"
Addictive and involving film
Will Smith | West Mids, UK | 11/28/1999
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I saw this film on television in the UK in early 1999. I was quickly addicted and enjoyed every minute of this rather unconventional comedic romance. The acting is first rate, with a story line guaranteed to grip even the most synical viewer.The story follows two school boys, best friends who grow up and loose touch with each other. When an accidental meeting between the two of them occurs some years later, that they realise how much things have changed. One of the boys is now a girl ! The events which follow take the viewer for an emotional ride through an intelligent and unpredictable story, which is unlike any film I have ever seen.I liked this film because of it's plot, acting and motorbikes (yes, I am a motorbike freak).An excellent export from Britain."
Boy meets girl . . .but with a twist
Will Smith | 01/22/1999
(3 out of 5 stars)
"this is actually an interesting, touching and reflective film. Two friends meet up accidently 16 years after their last meeting when both attended an all boys school. Only now one of them is a girl.Slowly even hesitantly the two get reaquainted. Prentice (the gorgeous Rupert Graves!) has aged but has not grown up---he still acts like a teenager. He has no aspirations except it appears to just get by. Kim, previously known as Karl at school, is a quiet determined professional. On the surface there is nothing that would suggests that two would be friends, let alone lovers. But each sees in the other something that is not physical---each has a goodness which transcends physicality. Kim while feminine in her actions, gestures and thoughts she is still very masculine in physique. This is why almost everyone else thinks she is a transvestite. The movie doesn't work on all levels. The conclusion is formula but the characters, Prentice and Kim, are poignant. The theme of being different and the longing to fit in are explored very subtley.Worth seeing. 3.5 stars"
"Different" Girls Score!
Amanda | Yuma, AZ United States | 07/09/2002
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Finally, a film with an honest, positive portrayal of transgendered and transsexual people! This movie should help destroy some stereotypes. Too bad it is a small film with limited distribution. Recommend this to everyone...a must see for all members of the human race."
Highly Enjoyable! Funny and Touching!
Anne McCloud | Seattle, WA USA | 06/14/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Great movie! I enjoyed this movie very much. The performances were great and the characters were very engaging. This movie will especially hit home if you are transexual or are close to someone who is, as you will really be able to identify with how the characters feel, especially Steven Mackintosh's character. They deal with everything from family reactions/difficulties to discrimation from the police and difficulties on the job. The movie left me with a feeling of hope and optimism for the future of all sexual minorities."