9 Most Powerful LGBT+ Movie Scenes Ever

There’s that one phrase that basically says we’re born free and without limit, and as we grow we shrink ourselves down to a palatable, friendly size and shape. I can’t credit it to anyone because nobody knows who originated it, but it definitely hits home in this film.

Tomboy sees a child coming to terms with their gender identity. Born as a little girl, Laure takes on a new male moniker and persona when moving to a new town. Laure becomes Michaël, and they’re happier for it.

Often in speaking about issues of gender identity and conformity, adults speak in abstract terms whilst ignoring the genuine experiences of kids. The film offers an endlessly empathetic view of exploring gender as a child, and it does so in Céline Sciamma’s signature beautiful way.

Many of the small moments of the film come together to create its powerful message, but one of the scenes spoken about for its minimalist authenticity is the football scene. Michaël, stepping out of the bounds and fear that come with Laure’s body, engages in a game of football with the neighbourhood boys. They play unabashedly, assimilating effortlessly in the boys’ game.

The female form is atrociously sexualised at every turn, regardless of age, so when Mikael removes their top like the rest of the boys, Sciamma's completely mundane, unpretentious portrayal of the action is both refreshing and freeing.

No drama, no perverted gaze, Mikael’s skin and body is shown through this lens finally as something not worth staring at, they are granted the same freedom to engage in play as the boys. It’s understated but incredibly powerful.