Director Corey Sherman’s debut film Big Boys mashes up two genres to great effect. The film is both a coming-of-age as well as a coming-out tale. Mix that in with a camping trip device and you get a surprisingly stellar film debut.
Teenager Jamie (Isaac Krasner, who shines here) is unsure what to make of himself. He tries dissuading himself that he may be gay by listing all the reasons he’s not. But Jamie is gay. And as the film’s title would suggest, he is especially fond of larger men.
Jamie and several family members and friends are set to go on a camping trip, where most of the film’s action occurs. Sherman drops a blatant innuendo before they leave, albeit one that flies over Jamie’s head. Jamie’s cousin is bringing her boyfriend Dan (David Johnson III), an extra-sized man. When Jamie’s parents mention their gratitude for taking Jamie along, Dan replies, "I’ll sure they’ll be fine. But, if not, we can always feed ‘em to the bears.”
This is a clear connection to “bears” in the LGBTQ community, yet Jamie, newly discovering his identity, wouldn’t know this. It is just one of many scenes that cement Jamie as a lovable, goofy hero. He is obsessed with cooking and drawing and spends most of the film trying to win Dan’s approval. Some of those scenes may seem awkward, but they’re incredibly relatable to anyone who’s ever had a crush on someone. There’s a particularly strong scene where Jamie weasels his way out of losing his virginity that’s bound to resonate with any former adolescent viewer. Educators and librarians will find Big Boys to be a valuable resource for discussions on identity, self-discovery, and the complexities of adolescence. Its blend of humor, heart, and sensitivity makes it an accessible entry point for conversations around LGBTQ+ issues, particularly for young audiences navigating similar experiences.
Where does this title belong on public library shelves?
Big Boys belongs on public library shelves in several key areas. It would be an excellent addition to the LGBTQ+ film section, as it features strong performances that resonate with themes central to the LGBTQ+ community, particularly those related to the "bear" lifestyle. The film’s appeal to outdoor enthusiasts and those who enjoy camping makes it equally suitable for collections focused on nature, adventure, or films celebrating the outdoors.