The Reel Review
14-year-old Jamie fears the group dynamic of his camping trip with his brother and favorite female cousin will be ruined when she brings her new boyfriend. But as he gets to know him, shy, awkward Jamie develops a crush on this would-be interloper. Isaac Krasner and David Johnson III star in this LGBTQ+ coming-of-age dramedy.
Big Boys is a love letter to adolescence and our unrequited first crush, regardless of sexual orientation. In his feature film debut, writer/director Corey Sherman captures the infatuation, embarrassment and confusion experienced by gay teens as they discover their burgeoning sexuality. His story is authentic and always on Jamie’s side. And Isaac Krasner’s breakthrough performance – complete with Jamie’s insecurities and an initial denial of his feelings – guarantees we will be rooting for him too. It is both heartwarming and heartbreaking.
Showcasing some very realistic dialogue as well as the usual relatable camping moments – struggling with setting up a tent, determining who will cook, getting lost, and the overall lack of privacy – Krasner carries the film as his Jamie learns some things about himself. David Johnson III (Lady in the Lake) is also terrific as the recipient of Jamie’s crush with Emily Deschanel (Bones) as Jamie’s mother. Big Boys is a simple, sweet film with a big heart.
REEL FACTS
• In addition to writing and directing, Corey Sherman is also an actor – providing the voice of Francis in the 2020 animated series 12oz. Mouse and appearing as the Cooking Time Director in a couple of episodes of the seven-season, 2015 comedy/mystery series Where the Bears Are.
• Big Boys won two L.A. Outfest 2023 awards – for Outstanding Performance (Isaac Krasner) and Audience Award for favorite film.
• Big Boys was filmed at Lake Arrowhead, California.
Video & Photo
Looks sweet and adorable 🥰