Writer and Director: Corey Sherman
What is more symbolic of the uncertainty and the unknown that plagues us during our teenage years than vast unexplored woodland? This serves as the predominant setting of Big Boys. This achingly authentic and sensitively handled coming-of-age drama sees 14-year-old Jamie embark on a camping trip with his brother Will and older cousin Allie. Jamie is displeased at the prospect of Allie’s partner Dan crashing what should have been a family only weekend. That is until he meets the athletic and handsome boyfriend, whom he immediately takes a shine to. Big Boys is one of those charming little films that is absent of much in the way of plot. Rather, writer and director Corey Sherman provides us with an understated character study and an exploration of those somewhat turbulent years when one is still trying to find out who they are.
Along with some stunning scenery and alluring cinematography courtesy of Gus Bendinelli, a first-rate cast elevate proceedings. Dan is the character most in danger of edging towards stereotype, however David Johnson III ensures this never happens. We see his sensitive side when in the company of Allie as well as his more boyish and bantering when interacting with the teenage brothers who look up to him. It’s an engaging and believable portrayal. Dora Madison convinces as the protective yet cool older cousin and immediately establishes an excellent rapport with her younger charges.
Taj Cross perfectly captures the cocky arrogance of the older brother who talks the talk but in reality, might not walk the walk. Again, he enjoys convincing chemistry with Madison and on-screen brother Jamie, played expertly by Isaac Krasner. The actor exudes all the anxieties and behaviours a 14-year-old boy endeavouring to work out his sexuality would. It is beyond believable with many of the actor’s scenes feeling improvised. This is testament not only to Krasner’s performance prowess, but to a carefully crafted script which brims with easy flowing, true to life dialogue. There are moments whereby we could be watching a docu-drama, so accurate and relatable is the film.
A great deal of love has been invested into this project and it pays dividends. We are left with a myriad of emotions – nostalgic for our youth but grateful to have navigated those waters. There is also a sense of heartened joy as we see the societal changes regarding attitudes towards homosexuality. Here we have a 14-year-old who by the end of the film is open and honest about who he is. Importantly, the ‘macho jock’ plays against caricature by showcasing sensitivity towards this, while never straying from his core character. It allows for some delightfully tender scenes along with copious hard-to-watch awkward moments. It is also rejuvenating to have a lead who does not tick the usual boxes in terms of physical appearance. This again allows the film to feel accessible and strike even more of a chord.
Every year more coming-of-age dramas are added to the genre’s crowded canon, but it is rare that one leaves a lasting imprint by offering a truly refreshing take. The story of Big Boys has been told countless times before and it will continue to be told under various guises. What makes this picture so successful is that we are permitted new perspectives on familiar subject matter and gifted naturalistic acting of the highest calibre. This is a quiet, low-key film that does not need to exclaim its points. Rather, it meditatively whispers them and is all the more impactful for it.
Big Boys is screening at Fragments Film Festival 2023.
