We all know Netflix is our go to for rewatching our old comfort shows, blowing our minds with intriguing documentaries, and cracking us up with the very best in stand up comedy specials. But one thing you may not consider going to Netflix for is a good cry. Until now, that is.
The latest Netflix release to go mega viral isn’t your usual binge-watching fare – in fact, it’s a real tear-jerker. But in spite of the devastation it seems to be inspiring on the internet, viewers are adamant that this film deserves a watch…
Big Boys Don’t Cry is a 2020 movie about a boy’s travels through the foster care and adoption system. Cheery stuff, we know – but what makes this watch even more poignant is the fact that it’s based on a true story!
It’s based on the tragic memoir of the same name by Paul Connelly. Connelly was abandoned aged just two weeks, and found himself living at the St Leonard’s Children’s home in Essex. But this children’s home was renowned for horrific child abuse, something that Connelly himself experienced.
The home operated from open from 1965 to 1984, and saw more than 3,000 children passing through its doors over the years. But St Leonard’s was eventually shut down after news broke of the heartbreaking abuse of many children by members of staff.
Big Boys Don’t Cry has a dual narrative, showing both Connelly as a child in the home, and as an adult, coming to terms with what happened to him. He is forced to confront his tragic past after the deaths of his friends, with heartwrenching consequences.
The real-life Connelly worked as a professional boxer, then a celebrity personal trainer, before learning to read at age twenty-five. He then went on to publish his bestselling memoir in 2010.
The movie is critically acclaimed, and now Netflix viewers are getting in on the action.
One viewer wrote: “I’ve just watched Big Boys Don’t Cry on Netflix. How on earth people can be so cruel is beyond me. I’ve cried my eyes out. It’s not for the faint-hearted. A true story. Absolutely heartbreaking.”
Another added: “Watched this last night with my partner and was feeling emotional them poor boys. So sad indeed.”
Another penned: “I watched it last night… horrible real-life story but very well portrayed and totally emotional.”
While someone else wrote: “I love British drama especially when it’s based on true events they’re always heart clutching. Great watch but not for the faint-hearted.”
Will you be tuning in?
