Miles Heizer Enlists For Duty In New Netflix Queer Dramedy “Boots”
Netflix has dropped the first teaser for Boots, an eight-episode comedic drama about a closeted teen who signs up for the United States (US) Marine Corps in the 1990s, when serving openly was still prohibited under “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” (DADT). The series stars Miles Heizer as Cameron Cope with Vera Farmiga in a key role.
The teaser shows him telling a recruiter, “My life needs a change, sir. I want to be somebody else.” Being openly gay in the US armed services was illegal at the time. The show promises a mix of comedy and drama as Cameron is thrown into the intense world of boot camp. His nervous reaction of “Oh, dear” when a drill sergeant storms his bus gives a perfect hint of the tone.
A compelling story from a legendary team…
The show has some serious creative credibility. It was created by Andy Parker, known for his work on Tales Of The City, and is executive-produced by the late television legend Norman Lear. The story is inspired by the real-life experiences of Greg Cope White, detailed in his memoir The Pink Marine, which recounts his time as a gay man in the military.
It’s not all push-ups and yelling.
While the setting is tough, Netflix describes the series as an “irreverent, off-beat take on the coming-of-age story.” Cameron and his best friend, Ray McAffey, the son of a Marine, must find their way alongside a diverse group of recruits. The official synopsis suggests the story focuses on forging unexpected bonds and discovering who you are in an environment designed to break you.
Boots premieres globally on Netflix on October 9. Will you be adding it to your watchlist?
UPDATE: Since its release, Boots earned strong critical praise and solid viewership, reaching number two on Netflix’s English TV charts and holding a 90 per cent approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes from critics and audiences alike. Despite that, Netflix announced it would not renew the series for a second season, ending it after its initial eight-episode run. Miles Heizer publicly shared his disappointment, thanked fans for their support, and highlighted the show’s impact even as its run concluded.
