Extract from: SHES THE MAN (2006), April 24, 2018
She's the Man (2006), a recent film that centers its narrative on gender performativity, is still well-liked by viewers today and is still relevant in its discussion of gender. The film centers on Viola, a teenage girl who, when her own soccer squad is cut, poses as her twin brother in order to join a men's team. Viola reveals how gender roles are fulfilled by posing as a male. She alters her voice, posture, and attire to act masculine, demonstrating that these characteristics are taught behaviors rather than inherent traits. Viola confuses everyone around her by alternating between her male and female identities, which leads to gender issues. Heteronormativity and forced heterosexuality are also themes in the movie. Everyone believes that attraction should be gender specific. Boys like girls, and girls like boys. But Viola's disguise challenges these expectations by creating amorous confusion. Since she successfully competes with and even outperforms the male players, her display of masculinity is likewise a type of gender rebellion, demonstrating that confidence and athletic skill are not gender specific. The movie uses exaggerated humor and parodic representation; Viola's awkward attempts to "act like a guy" make the viewer laugh while highlighting how incredibly strict gender norms can be.
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