'Ponyboi' Breaks Ground with Intersex Lead in Crime Drama

River Gallo delivers a compelling performance in Esteban Arango's film, navigating identity and crime in 2002 New Jersey.

Esteban Arango's film 'Ponyboi' features River Gallo, an intersex actor, in the lead role, marking a significant step in representation for the intersex community in film.
The film, set in 2002 New Jersey, follows the life of Ponyboi, a sex worker, as he navigates his identity, relationships, and a life of crime.
Ponyboi's character is noted for its complex portrayal of gender, with Gallo's performance capturing the character's fluctuating gender presentation.
The film's narrative includes a crime story involving Ponyboi's pimp Vinny, played by Dylan O'Brien, and a drug deal gone wrong.
Despite some criticisms of predictability and reliance on clichés, the film has been praised for its unique protagonist and strong visual style.