XXY

A film by Lucía Puenzo

The chromosomal abnormality of XXY, known as hermaphroditism or intersexuality, results in a child born with both male and female reproductive organs. When detected at birth the condition usually results in a decision between physicians and parents to surgically alter the body to become one or the other phenotypic assignment – male or female. This remarkably subtle and intelligent film is a story of the understanding and acceptance of a diagnosis by both child and parents, and the interaction and conflicts such a gender variation can present.

Alex is a 15-year-old intersex from Buenos Aires. At birth her parents, marine biologist Kraken and his wife Suli, decided against having her operated on, in order that she would later be able to choose her gender herself. However, she was given female hormone supplements and has been raised as a girl. They are loving parents and have moved several times before settling in a remote area of Uruguay in order to protect her from the exposure and ridicule she previously suffered while living in Argentina. Alex's mother clearly wants her to be a girl, but her father has always maintained she should make the choice herself, and he is willing to accept whatever she decides. Alex is now beginning to discover herself and her preferences. She has many feelings, and she wants to express them.

In deep conflict about her situation, Alex refuses to take her medications, wanting to explore both aspects of her sexuality, as her physiology dictates. Given the chance to choose what to be, she will choose not to change, even against her parents' assumptions that she would want to be a girl. When Alex's mother invites her friend Erika and her surgeon husband Ramiro to their home to advise them on the surgical alternatives, they are accompanied by their shy, artistic son Álvaro who knows nothing of Alex's condition and has some sexual issues of his own. There is an immediate emotional attraction between Alex and Álvaro which will ultimately result in a crisis in the transition from adolescence to adulthood and self-acceptance for both these young people.

In her award-winning first feature, Lucía Puenzo explores the individual's self-discovery and our acceptance of their identity. She delivers a unique and sensitive depiction of the ambiguity of sexual awakening where the choices made will define what we are beyond the physical aspects. She also proclaims the right of being different, and to have the freedom to make those choices. Above all, she contends that a person with such a physical identity should not only be respected but can also be desired.