Boys State is not a film about politics, but the unification of 1000 Texas boys that came from building a government system from the ground. Any person, Republican or Democrat, federalist or nationalist, left wing or right wing, can watch Boys State without trouble. Political parties are not the focus here, but instead it is the boys' search for moral principles and developing their own voices. The film reminds us, time to time, that they are possibly the future leaders of the state of Texas. After finishing the film and seeing their complete journey, I'd say the future there seems bright enough.
The film focuses on only four important participants. Two of which are running for governor, the other two for State Chairman. They make powerful speeches, showing us their political positions are stronger than ever. It's challenging to please a crowd of rowdy 17-year old teenagers; The crowd either cheers enthusiastically or let out loud boos. There is no inbetween.
It is especially challenging for the introverted Governor runner Steve Garza. He is soft-spoken but never weak. He prepares thoughtful, captivating speeches. I don't agree with everything he says, but his delivery of speeches makes it clear why he won so much support from his fellow Nationalists. Another particularly impressive participant is the progressive State Chairman René Otero, who delivers the film's most powerful monologue.
So now the views, personalities, and leadership styles of the four main people are set up, the only thing left is the election itself. I figured that this Boys State program is educational, practical, and stressful for the boys. But at the same time it's clear that they are having fun. A thousand teenagers is a tough group to work with as politicians. I can't imagine the entire state of Texas.
The film focuses on only four important participants. Two of which are running for governor, the other two for State Chairman. They make powerful speeches, showing us their political positions are stronger than ever. It's challenging to please a crowd of rowdy 17-year old teenagers; The crowd either cheers enthusiastically or let out loud boos. There is no inbetween.
It is especially challenging for the introverted Governor runner Steve Garza. He is soft-spoken but never weak. He prepares thoughtful, captivating speeches. I don't agree with everything he says, but his delivery of speeches makes it clear why he won so much support from his fellow Nationalists. Another particularly impressive participant is the progressive State Chairman René Otero, who delivers the film's most powerful monologue.
So now the views, personalities, and leadership styles of the four main people are set up, the only thing left is the election itself. I figured that this Boys State program is educational, practical, and stressful for the boys. But at the same time it's clear that they are having fun. A thousand teenagers is a tough group to work with as politicians. I can't imagine the entire state of Texas.