Beautiful Boxer

You have to admit that a docudrama about a transvestite Thai kickboxer saving up for a sex-change operation isn't your typical Hollywood fare. But Beautiful Boxer--based, as they say, on a true story--turns out to be unexpectedly sweet. Asanee Suwan exhibits a gentle, reticent demeanor outside the ring and ample prowess within it as Nong Toom, son of a poor rural couple, who--after an unsuccessful stint as a novice Buddhist monk--shows such surprising talent in martial arts that he's accepted for training in Muay Thai style by a local master. Nong not only becomes an unlikely champion but a favorite of some fans because of his habit of wearing flamboyant costumes and makeup in his matches, but his publicly stated desire for an operation earns him the scorn of many others, and his career falters. The story, told in flashback by the retired Nong Toom (dressed in female garb) as he awaits the completion of his physical transformation, holds one's interest throughout, even though the cinematography is rather rough and the direction more languid than energetic. Despite the minor flaws, this remains an intriguingly different tale, buoyed by a likable lead performance and told with just enough skill to go the distance. Recommended. (F. Swietek)