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| Image Courtesy Dark Star Pictures |
Mumblecore films can seem not so focused or well-scripted because sometimes they rely on improvisation for some scenes. The upside of this method is a sense of realness or more naturally occurring dialogue and scenes. The downside can also be the feeling that the movie wasn’t tightly scripted or that the actors can’t remember their lines.
This style of film can be seen as a reaction against scripts that are overwritten with potent, but unrealistic dialogue (i.e. Juno). However, this style works so well for Big Boys (2023), a story about a teenager, Jamie (Isaac Krasner), coming to terms with his sexual orientation. All the small moments of the film come off as genuine, even if they sometimes feel improvised.
Jamie is thrown off when he learns from his jerky older brother, Will (Taj Cross), that an upcoming camping trip with his cousin has changed. Older, kinder cousin Allie (Dora Madison) is bringing along her hunky boyfriend, Dan (David Johnson III). While packing for the trip, Jamie spies his husky and, presumably gay, neighbors outside, grilling and having beers.
This is another characteristic of mumblecore films: showing instead of telling. Quiet moments like this with Jamie reveal more through small actions instead of anything being stated bluntly by characters.
This camping trip is an amazing setup for many awkward moments between these four characters as they camp in a Texas state park for two nights. Krasner shines as the awkward but ultimately brave protagonist here, who makes the character of Jamie so believable and charming. Jamie’s love of cooking and eagerness to use his knowledge make for some of the best scenes in the film. Though he takes lots of abuse from brother Will, Jamie finds a way to stand up to him and still be himself.
The film works exceedingly well as a thoughtful and quiet queer coming-of-age film. Jamie’s experiences here are all too familiar for queer kids coming to terms with their orientation and sexuality. His moments with his cousin’s boyfriend Dan feed into some hilarious fantasies, but also show Jamie’s resilience and confidence.
The film’s resolution matches its tone well by using charm, subtlety, and small moments to demonstrate its message instead of elaborately scripted confrontations. This first feature film from director Corey Sherman garnered many nominations and wins from many film festivals last year and is available to rent on Amazon Prime.
- Eric Beach