Boys State

In this documentary, 1,100 tenth-grade boys from across Texas gather for an elaborate summer program where they build a representative government from the ground up. The film follows several of these teens as they navigate the intense, often emotionally charged process of campaigning, politicking, and governing, revealing fascinating insights into the future of American leadership.

Boys State was met with widespread critical acclaim, praised for its insightful and often surprisingly nuanced look at young conservatism, political ambition, and the complexities of the American political landscape. Critics lauded the filmmakers' ability to capture authentic moments of both idealism and cynicism among the participants.

• A compelling and often unnerving look at the next generation of political leaders.

• Successfully captures the intensity and absurdity of political campaigning.

• Offers a thought-provoking examination of conservative ideology and ambition.

Google audience: Google users overwhelmingly praised the film for its insightful portrayal of political maneuvering among teenagers, highlighting its ability to spark conversation about the future of politics. Many appreciated the raw authenticity of the participants' experiences and the film's balanced approach.

Won the Grand Jury Prize: U.S. Documentary at the 2020 Sundance Film Festival. Nominated for Best Documentary Feature at the Independent Spirit Awards.

The film was shot over the course of 11 days during the actual Boys State program, with the filmmakers having unprecedented access to the participants' experiences.