This is the first feature from Elegance Bratton, based on his own experience. When his mother kicked him out for being gay at 16, he spent 10 years homeless before joining the Marines. Most of the movie takes place at the boot camp, where he’s continually harassed by other recruits and the officers. This is a small indie that’s focused on the people instead of big production values, which is fortunate because the performances are outstanding. Jeremy Pope as the recruit, Gabrielle Union as his mother and Bokeem Woodbine as the drill sergeant are all overflowing with a range of emotions and deep feelings. Additional supporting roles expand the diverse experiences in several directions. There have certainly been other stories of gay men overcoming obstacles, but the fact that this one is true and he’s Black adds additional resonance. 
(3.5 / 5)
