To Die Like a Man

In the midst of war, a young soldier makes the daring decision to go AWOL. This choice sets into motion a series of events that lead him away from conflict and towards the vibrant life in Lisbon.

Tonia, a seasoned transsexual performer in Lisbon, faces a challenging transition as younger talents rise to prominence in the drag scene. With her stage presence threatened, Tonia begins to reflect on her changing identity and relevance in a world that seems to be moving on without her.

Caught between her public persona and personal desires, Tonia grapples with the pressure from her younger boyfriend, Rosário, to fully embrace her femininity. This internal conflict intensifies as the idea of undergoing a sex change operation looms over her decisions.

As Tonia contemplates her future, she is beset by her deeply ingrained religious beliefs. She feels a profound sense of guilt, believing that she can never truly fulfill the role of the woman that Rosário envisions in her.

Tonia's complicated past resurfaces when her estranged son, now a deserting soldier, unexpectedly seeks her out. This surprise encounter forces Tonia to confront the choices she has made throughout her life and the ramifications of those decisions.

A shocking revelation regarding Tonia's health propels her into a state of urgency and despair. Feeling overwhelmed, she decides to escape her burdens, seeking solace away from the chaos of her life in the city.

Tonia and Rosário embark on a journey to the countryside, ostensibly to visit Rosário's brother. As they travel, the weight of their unspoken fears and desires hangs palpably in the air, setting the stage for deeper revelations.

While navigating through the countryside, Rosário finds himself lost on familiar roads from his childhood. This disorientation serves as a metaphor for both characters' searches for identity and belonging amidst their chaotic lives.

Their wandering leads them into an enchanting forest, a mystical place that promises to reveal truths hidden away in their hearts. This unexpected detour marks a turning point in their relationship as they confront their innermost thoughts.

Within the forest, they encounter the mysterious Maria Bakker and her companion Paula. This meeting serves as a catalyst for both Tonia and Rosário, forcing them to face their fears and desires, ultimately altering the course of their lives.

The encounter with Maria Bakker and Paula leads Tonia and Rosário to a confrontation with their deepest fears. They are compelled to question their identities and the relationships that define them, setting the stage for personal growth.

As the wilderness around them symbolizes change, Tonia begins to contemplate embracing her true self. This pivotal moment encapsulates her journey toward acceptance, viewed through the lens of her complicated relationships.

By the end of their journey, both Tonia and Rosário emerge with a new understanding of themselves and each other. Their experiences in the forest mark the beginning of a crucial transformation, pushing them to embrace the life changes ahead.