This documentary follows a group of 13 to 14-year-old boys attending a summer camp called Camp Timberlake, in Vermont. At this camp, the boys work together to create new bonds and grow individually as a person. Free from screens and constrictions of society the boys talk about how they struggle with making connections with friends and family. They learn to open up, support each other and redefine themselves.
The film highlights the experiences of the campers, beginning with discussions about feelings of loneliness in modern society. As the boys arrive at camp and meet their fellow campers, they are asked to turn in all electronic devices and outside food. The camp kicks off with each cabin creating a "social contract" that all members agree to follow. The campers participate in physical activities such as rock climbing, swimming, and hiking. Later that night, they participate in a tradition called "the bead." During this ceremony, one camper gifts a bead on a necklace to another, acknowledging and appreciating their contributions to the camp or cabin. The campers describe this experience as truly special and unforgettable. The film continues following the boys through the last day, when the campers celebrate with a small party before heading home. The camera work is quite good. One example is when all the campers are unpacking in their cabin, and we see a really good close-up of each camper. There aren't any main characters, but it does focus on a few campers who are like the "seniors" of the group, because this is their last year. It also focused on Zach, a counselor who has helped out a few of the campers. The film excels in showing us how the campers feel about their experience at the camp. This documentary takes place in a wooded area in Vermont in 2023. There is no background music in the film until the outro, which is a pleasant acoustic song that helps wrap up the film and the experience. My favorite part is when the rangers were looking through their mail, and one ranger's grandma had snuck some candy into the teddy bear as a gift through the mail.
The film shows how these boys examine today's society where technology sometimes isolates us and figuring out ways to help deal with that and escape the isolation. Be aware that there is some mild profanity used, a discussion about suicide and mention of family struggles, including bullying.
I give The Boys of Summer 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. By Zamyra G., KIDS FIRST!
This documentary follows a group of 13 to 14-year-old boys attending a summer camp called Camp Timberlake, in Vermont. At this camp, the boys work together to create new bonds and grow individually as a person. Free from screens and constrictions of society the boys talk about how they struggle with making connections with friends and family. They learn to open up, support each other and redefine themselves.
The film highlights the experiences of the campers, beginning with discussions about feelings of loneliness in modern society. As the boys arrive at camp and meet their fellow campers, they are asked to turn in all electronic devices and outside food. The camp kicks off with each cabin creating a "social contract" that all members agree to follow. The campers participate in physical activities such as rock climbing, swimming, and hiking. Later that night, they participate in a tradition called "the bead." During this ceremony, one camper gifts a bead on a necklace to another, acknowledging and appreciating their contributions to the camp or cabin. The campers describe this experience as truly special and unforgettable. The film continues following the boys through the last day, when the campers celebrate with a small party before heading home. The camera work is quite good. One example is when all the campers are unpacking in their cabin, and we see a really good close-up of each camper. There aren't any main characters, but it does focus on a few campers who are like the "seniors" of the group, because this is their last year. It also focused on Zach, a counselor who has helped out a few of the campers. The film excels in showing us how the campers feel about their experience at the camp. This documentary takes place in a wooded area in Vermont in 2023. There is no background music in the film until the outro, which is a pleasant acoustic song that helps wrap up the film and the experience. My favorite part is when the rangers were looking through their mail, and one ranger's grandma had snuck some candy into the teddy bear as a gift through the mail.
The film shows how these boys examine today's society where technology sometimes isolates us and figuring out ways to help deal with that and escape the isolation. Be aware that there is some mild profanity used, a discussion about suicide and mention of family struggles, including bullying.
I give The Boys of Summer 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. By Zamyra G., KIDS FIRST!
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