Common Sense Media Review
By Joyce Slaton
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Powerful and complex drama dives into gender identity.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 13+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
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Butterfly
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
Like a BUTTERFLY, Max (Callum Booth-Ford), who was assigned male at birth, wants to be known as Maxine, the trans girl she really is. But her mom, Vicky (Anna Friel), and dad, Stephen (Emmett J. Scanlan), aren't supportive at first and want to "fix" her. But when Maxine tries to die by suicide, the dissonance between what Max looks like on the outside and feels like on the inside is too much to take—and now Vicky, Stephen, and sister Lily (Millie Gibson) go on a journey that changes them forever.
Is It Any Good?
This powerful drama shows how Maxine's family come to terms with her transition and work together slowly, sometimes painfully, and on a foundation of honesty and acceptance. When Butterfly opens, Maxine faces her father's reluctance to accept who she is, and the series shows how violence is often used as a tool to impose gender norms. Scenes in which Maxine faces insults and abuse are hard to watch but never fall into exploitation territory, thanks to a script that celebrates her integrity and courage.
As years go by and stories about trans people increase with frequency and diversity, Butterfly will most likely feel dated with its centering around gender identity, coming out, and transitioning. Fortunately, it avoids melodrama and boasts strong performances that should stand the test of time.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about stereotypes about transgender people. What's the impact of these generalizations? How do dramas such as Butterfly affect the way people think about them?
Did you learn anything new about transgender people through Maxine's experience of gender identity? What's the difference between "gender" and "sexual orientation"? What are the differences between being gay or lesbian, bisexual, queer, or transgender? Are there similarities?
What other movies or shows can you name that follow transgender characters? How is Butterfly similar to or different from these other representations?
How do Maxine and her family show empathy, courage, and compassion with one another? What are some other character strengths that help people relate to one another despite differences?
TV Details
- Premiere date : January 19, 2019
- Cast : Anna Friel , Callum Booth-Ford , Millie Gibson
- Network : Hulu
- Genre : Drama
- Topics : Family Stories ( Siblings )
- Character Strengths : Compassion , Courage , Empathy
- TV rating :
- Last updated : October 1, 2025
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