“Beautiful Boxer” is certainly bizarre: a major Thai box-office hit and prize-winner based on the true story of transgendered boxing legend Parinya Charoenphol, a young monk who became a champion kick-boxer to he could earn money for a sex-change operation–and who became famous for wearing female garb, makeup and mascara to fight his/her opponents. Obviously a matter of taste (not mine, unfortunately), it’s been co-written and directed with sensitivity, atmosphere and passion by Singapore theater director Ekachai Uekrongtham, creator of the Siamese twin play “Chang and Eng.” And it’s acted memorably by another champion Thai pro kick-boxer, Asanee Suwan, who won Thailand’s best actor award in the part.
“Beautiful Boxer” ((star)(star)) opens Friday at the Music Box Theatre, 3733 N. Southport Ave. Call 773-871-6604 or visit www.musicboxtheatre.com . No MPAA rating: Adult (mature themes and sensuality). Running time: 1:58.
–Michael Wilmington
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