Watch Soldier's Girl

Soldier's Girl is a 2003 drama film that tells the true story of the romance between Army Private First Class Barry Winchell and transgender nightclub performer Calpernia Addams. The movie, directed by Frank Pierson, features a talented cast headlined by Troy Garity as Winchell, Lee Pace as Addams, and Andre Braugher, who plays the regiment commander.

The film takes place in the late 1990s, when Winchell is stationed at Fort Campbell in Kentucky. He is a model soldier, dedicated to his job and his fellow soldiers. However, he begins to feel increasingly conflicted when he falls in love with Addams, a transgender woman who performs in a local club. Despite their unconventional relationship, the two of them are deeply in love, and their bond is put to the test when their affair becomes known to Winchell's fellow soldiers.

As the two lovers struggle to keep their relationship afloat, they face increasing harassment and discrimination from Winchell's comrades. His roommate, for instance, mocks his relationship, while a fellow soldier tries to provoke him into fighting. Winchell has to constantly defend his relationship against the prejudice and hatred that surround him, all while continuing to serve his country dutifully.

Things take a dramatic turn when Winchell is brutally beaten to death by two soldiers in 1999. The murder sends shockwaves through the military and the country at large and shines a spotlight on the discrimination and mistreatment faced by LGBTQ soldiers. It also raises important questions about the role of the military in our society and the ongoing fight for equality and acceptance.

Throughout the movie, Garity delivers a powerful performance as Barry Winchell, bringing to life a conflicted and vulnerable young man who is struggling to find his place in the world. Lee Pace is equally impressive as Calpernia Addams, imbuing her character with a fierce spirit and a deep sense of empathy. Her scenes in the nightclub are particularly moving, as she sings and dances with a poignant vulnerability and grace.

Andre Braugher also delivers a solid performance as the regiment commander, who struggles to balance his duty to the military with his sense of humanity and compassion. He tries to provide guidance and support to Winchell, but is ultimately unable to prevent the tragic events that unfold.

One of the strengths of Soldier's Girl is its honest and unflinching portrayal of the discrimination and violence faced by the LGBTQ community in the military. The movie doesn't shy away from the difficult topics and instead tackles them head on, shining a light on the injustices and prejudices that still exist in our society. It is a compelling and emotional watch that will leave viewers with a deeper understanding of the issues that are still being faced by LGBTQ people today.

In conclusion, Soldier's Girl is a must-see movie for anyone interested in LGBTQ rights, the military, or human rights in general. It is a powerful and moving film that manages to be both heartwarming and heartbreaking at the same time. Troy Garity, Lee Pace, and Andre Braugher all give fantastic performances, and the movie is a testament to the importance of telling stories that matter.

Soldier's Girl is a 2003 tv movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 52 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.8.