Boy State - Movie Review

Boy State - Movie Review

Critic Score - 8 of 10

General Audience Score - 6 of 10

There exists a program for young men and women that teaches them the basic elements and principles of the U.S. governement. The program for the young men is called Boys State. This documentary tracks the progress of several young men as they progress through this week long program. But is that premise enough to hold together a full length feature film?

PROS - This movie explores the ins and outs of democratic government through the lens of high school students. As a documentary, getting to experience the roller coaster ride of feelings of these young men as they go through this journey makes for a very engaging experience. It's also very informative and even at times riveting to see the seeds of politics in these young mens lives. They have debates, vote for positions and even have "hype men" to get the crowd pumped up for individual members of the party. The portrayal of this model government feels eerily similar to the grown up version we're accustomed to watching on the news channels, press conferences and campaign trails. When things get tough for these young men there are sacrifices to be made, compromising to be done and even moral dilemmas to tackle. This all leads to a very provocative and emotional conclusion that really packs a punch.

It is very well shot and produced. The films characters tell a very vivid story of truth, honesty and triumph. But we also see the darker side of politics, the win at all costs mentality that will push individuals to smear and besmirch their fellowman in the interest of ones own advancement.

CONS - This movie was well edited but at 1 hour and 49 minutes really could've used to trim down the run time. Many average moviegoers may get bored with the pacing of this film and a shortening up could've helped sustain momentum. While the story is interesting, one needs to have at least a fair amount of interest in politics to really get invested in these events, so this film definitely won't be for all.

SUMMARY - If you're into politics at all this story is a captivating glimpse at a world of youthful ideals, I would say before they are corrupted but even that isn't entirely accurate. This documentary will undoutedly be among the best of the year and may even be shooting for awards during the season. Others interest may wane at times or lose interest completely during some sections. Try it out, take a trip to Boys State, you may not enjoy the trip that much but then again, you just may.

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