Boots

From the trailer, i thought it was going to take the campy and syrupy route, but so glad it didn't. Boots starts off with a closeted gay guy joining the marines with his straight best friend ... and thats all you need to know. The show doesn't just focus on how the lead actor struggles in the marine because of his sexuality, it also shows racism, and any kind of discrimination that fits the model of being a 'Man'... From a young age, your peers tell you how a 'Man' should act, be straight, brave, strong, etc. Life is short, live how you want and feel... Even the most confident guy, will have something they find that is not man enuff about themselves. Thats why the show is truly relatable for all guys. The show strikes a great balance of drama and lightheartedness so the more darker moments don't put you off. The cast is made up of relatively unknown actors, apart from Vera Farmiga (truly supporting in spirit), but they are all likeable and can act. In essence it's an LGBTQ themed show without having to rely too much on the sexual aspect of things, which many shows do nowadays. It is also a show for people who have felt like an outsider and felt the only way to fit in ... is to change ... but is that true? One of Netflix's better shows of late....

I had friends who went into the Marines, and a lot of the brutality, harsh training, and name-calling you see in this show is accurate-at least back in the '90s. From what I understand, the storyline draws from the book The Pink Marine, which took place a decade earlier.

That said, Boots is absolutely binge-worthy. If you're overly sensitive or homophobic, this probably isn't the show for you-so don't watch it and then leave a bad review. These are real situations that gay men endured in the military for years. Personally, I see nothing wrong with anyone who wants to fight and even die for our country, no matter who they are.

First of all, if you're old-school, stuck in a patriarchal mindset, you're probably not going to like the female lead character or the staff sergeant. Both are minorities, and the story also centers on three gay male characters. That diversity is exactly what gives the show its depth and power, forcing viewers to confront realities that were ignored or silenced for too long.

One of my favorite lines in the series comes from the staff sergeant:

> "One of my men had to be on double duty because the higher-ups had to investigate who's putting what in who. The man won a Silver Star for god's sake-who cares?" That's pure poetry.

The character buildup is excellent, showing how people can bond in the most difficult, testosterone-charged, macho environments. There's also a lot of humor woven in. Yes, some parts are fictionalized for dramatic effect, but it's still a powerful story that makes you care about the characters while taking you through laughter, tension, and raw emotion.

And in case you're wondering-yes, the lead actor looked familiar. He played Alex in 13 Reasons Why.

"Boots" surprised me in the best possible way. I went in expecting a lighthearted, campy gay series full of clichés and sass, but it turned out to be deeply moving and beautifully crafted. Each recruit's story was layered and heartfelt, giving real emotional weight to their struggles and triumphs. The writing strikes an elegant balance between humor and heartbreak, with moments of courage that linger long after the credits roll. The performances were exceptional, the character arcs felt earned, and the direction was sharp without ever losing its humanity. It's rare for a show to subvert expectations this completely, I wouldn't be surprised if it racks up a shelf full of award nominations.

Boots is a refreshing addition to Netflix's lineup, offering a unique comedic drama set against the backdrop of the 1990s US Marine Corps. The series follows Cameron Cope, a bullied gay teen portrayed by Miles Heizer, who, alongside his best friend Ray McAffey (Liam Oh), joins the Marine Corps. This decision leads them into boot camp, where they not only face the physical challenges of military training but also navigate the tumultuous landscape of their identities during a time when being gay in the military was illegal.

Each episode skillfully balances humor with heartfelt moments, creating an engaging narrative that explores themes of friendship, resilience, and self-discovery. The dynamic between Cameron and Ray is a highlight, showcasing their unwavering support for each other as they confront both external pressures and their inner struggles. The ensemble cast brings a diverse range of characters to life, each adding layers to the story as they bond over shared experiences and challenges.

It also does an excellent job of tackling serious issues while maintaining a lighthearted tone. The sharp wit and irreverent humor make it accessible, even as it addresses the harsh realities of military life and the struggles of being a closeted LGBTQ+ individual. The writing is clever, often using comedy as a vehicle to discuss deeper themes, making it both entertaining and thought-provoking.

Visually, the series captures the gritty yet vibrant atmosphere of the 90s military experience, enhancing the storytelling with nostalgic touches. The pacing is brisk, keeping viewers engaged as the characters evolve through their trials and tribulations.

Overall, it is a great coming-of-age story that resonates with anyone who has ever felt like an outsider. It's a bold exploration of identity and belonging, wrapped in humor and camaraderie, making it a must-watch for those seeking a heartfelt and relatable narrative.

Binge worthy, funny, insightful, incredible. Norman Lear had an idea with this one: entertain and tell a story. Semper Fi. A true coming of age story.

Mark my words: This series will mark a significant turning point in Max Parker's career. As an English actor, he's not well known in the U. S yet but his performance in this series is definitely award worthy.