An exploration of sexuality, masculinity, bullying, queerness, and the experience of feeling different, "One of the Boys" is a poignant coming-of-age miniseries. Set in a small, hyper-masculine provincial town in Denmark, it offers a sensitive, humorous, heartrending, and poetic portrayal of a young boy navigating societal pressures to fit in while grappling with romantic feelings for a charming newcomer.
“One of the Boys” (Original title: En af drengene) thought-provoking coming-of-age miniseries that unfolds over four compelling episodes. Helmed by filmmaker Teys Schucany, the series navigates themes of sexuality, masculinity, bullying, queerness, and the isolating experience of feeling different, all set against the backdrop of a small, hyper-masculine provincial town in Denmark.
The narrative centers around Lau (Jonathan Meinert Pedersen), a socially awkward young boy from the tight-knit community, who finds himself on a transformative journey during a traditional Man Camp retreat before starting high school. As Lau grapples with the pressure to conform to stereotypical notions of manliness, he also contends with his burgeoning romantic feelings for Aksel (Jacob Spang Olsen), a charming new boy with an artistic flair and bleach-blond hair.
The series effectively captures the complexities of adolescence, exploring the challenges of self-discovery and identity in a toxic and restrictive environment. The juxtaposition of the hyper-masculine expectations of the Man Camp with Lau’s internal struggles creates a rich and emotionally charged narrative.
One standout element is the portrayal of bullying within the series. The depiction of the other boys in the camp ready to bully anyone who doesn’t conform to their narrow view of “manliness” is both uncomfortable and, unfortunately, realistic. The anticipated scene where the boys target another kid for being “queer” adds a layer of tension and raises important questions about acceptance and tolerance.
The chemistry between the lead characters, Lau and Aksel, is palpable, and their journey is portrayed with sensitivity and authenticity. Lau’s social awkwardness and Aksel’s artistic spirit contribute to a dynamic and relatable portrayal of young love in the face of societal expectations.
The series takes the viewer through a rollercoaster of emotions, from moments of sensitivity and humor to heartbreak and poetic reflections. As Lau and Aksel draw closer to each other, the audience is given a window into the intricacies of their relationship and the challenges they face in the unforgiving environment of the Man Camp.
While the series tackles significant themes, there’s a notable missed opportunity to delve even deeper into the exploration of contemporary societal issues. The portrayal of the adult characters as oblivious or indifferent to the events unfolding around the boys detracts from the realism and relatability of the story. Additionally, the series, at times, seems to be mired in outdated perspectives, offering a narrative more suited for a storyline set in the 1990s than one reflecting the progress made in recent decades.
Despite these criticisms, “One of the Boys” remains a compelling and important addition to the coming-of-age genre. The character development, particularly Lau’s evolution and the potential resolution of the bullying subplot, promises a meaningful and impactful conclusion. As the story unfolds, the series encourages viewers to question societal norms and ponder alternative possibilities for today’s teenage boys.
“One of the Boys” offers a nuanced and emotionally resonant exploration of adolescence, sexuality, and masculinity. Its sensitive portrayal of the challenges faced by the characters and the evocative depiction of a small provincial town contribute to a series that, while not without its flaws, leaves a lasting impression.
