Deep Dive: Boys State (2020)
Film Lens
Boys State is a documentary that follows a thousand teenage boys in Texas as they participate in a program to build a representative government. The film focuses on the political dynamics within the program, showcasing the boys' diverse political backgrounds and their efforts to campaign for various offices, including the Governor of Texas. Key participants include Ben Feinstein, Robert MacDougall, Steven Garza, and René Otero, each representing different viewpoints and strategies in their political pursuits.
The film captures the intense atmosphere of political competition as the boys navigate party divisions, campaign strategies, and personal beliefs. The Nationalists and Federalists are the two main parties, with candidates needing to gather signatures to run for office. The documentary provides insight into the political machinations of the next generation, reflecting current American political divisions through the lens of teenage boys engaging in a mock government experience.
Why Watch
- •Meet Ben Feinstein, a bilateral amputee running for state chairman.
- •See Steven Garza's campaign and his views on abortion.
- •Follow the intense political competition in Austin, Texas.
Did You Know
•The film won the U.S. Documentary Competition Grand Jury Prize at Sundance on January 24, 2020.
•Boys State was released on Apple TV+ on August 14, 2020.
•The film has a 94% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on 144 reviews.
•In 2024, a companion film titled Girls State was released, focusing on the 2022 Girls State Program in Missouri.
Perfect For
Political science enthusiastsTeenage activismDocumentary fans