Review: Knock Out Blonde: The Kellie Maloney Story

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Official synopsis: The authorized documentary of Kellie Maloney, the famous British transgender boxing manager. This unique film will explore Kellie's story of truth and denial, as she confronted uncertainty and ultimately accepted herself for who she was.

Full disclosure, I did not know who Kellie Maloney was before watching this film. I don't watch boxing, where she had a successful career when she was presenting as Frank Maloney. I don't watch Celebrity Big Brother, which she appeared on as well. This was my introduction to Kellie, and I'm glad to have "met" her. 

It's beautiful when someone can finally feel like they can be themselves wholly. Kellie transitioned "late" in life, but it's never too late. The doc is very balanced with showing Kellie's early career. Her ex-wife, Tracey and daughters all get a say - and are very frank (no pun intended) that things were messy when Kellie came out and she and Tracey separated. Thankfully, all parties have come around and are on good terms. 

Mental health also plays a huge part in this documentary. Even when she finally receives top and bottom surgery, it's not a fix-all cure, finally seeing yourself in the physical form you're meant to have. Her therapist quite literally saved her life at one point. It just goes to show how much we should be investing in getting everyone the help they need.

This does fall into a few documentary "tropes" I don't love (the occasional clumsy reenactment) but this was very interesting and worth the watch. Knock Out Blonde is now available on VOD.

Grade: B

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