Viewers were introduced to a number of Marine recruits experiencing difficult physical trials, emotional moments, and even a shocking death in Netflix’s Boots, but how did the season conclude?
The series, which debuted on Thursday, October 9, centers on Cameron (Miles Heizer) as he enlists in the American military with his friend Ray (Liam Oh) in the 1990s. Cameron must conceal his sexuality while attempting to complete basic training alongside Slovacek (Kieron Moore), Hicks (Angus O’Brien), Nash (Dominic Goodman), John (Blake Burt), Cody (Brandon Tyler Moore), and Ochoa (Johnathan Nieves).
When Ochoa learns his wife was unfaithful after calling home, the recruits are making progress. Ochoa’s stress caused him to lash out, and a confrontation with Sergeant Howitt (Nicholas Logan) led to the youngster experiencing a heart issue that claimed his life.
O’Brien spoke with Us Weekly regarding the stunning development.
“That was a very significant turning point in the program. It is, in many respects, a huge tragedy. And it truly puts a lot of the relationships that are being tested and the relationships that are developing in the show to the test and cements them, he said. “For many of the men, it’s a moment of realization. They understand that this is genuine and no longer a joke.”
O’Brien considered how it impacted his character while dissecting the emotional event, adding, “Hicks was looking for a thrill, excitement, or entertainment. There are these wonderful things that happen with tragedy at times when you get to see how people support and comfort one another in that time. I’m not sure Hicks was ever the type to appreciate that kind of behavior. But something about boot camp changes him.”
O’Brien went on to say: “There is a greater sense of mutual respect among all of the recruits after that point. Speaking for myself, I would argue that Hicks gains something after that point: the realization that not everything has to be a joke, even if it’s enjoyable when many things are.”
An overarching plot line in the show’s first season centers on Cameron’s experience as a gay man serving in the military. This was similar to Sergeant Sullivan (Max Parker), who pressured Cameron to keep that aspect of himself hidden because Sullivan was also a closeted man in the army.
O’Brien talked about how Boots sparks discussion regarding authenticity.
“The experience of filming the show reminded me that no matter how different we perceive ourselves to be from others, we all ultimately desire the same things. We desire happiness, respect, and a fulfilling life,” he remarked. “The beauty of the program is that it features all of these individuals from very different backgrounds who would not normally consider depending on one another. They are compelled to rely on one another due to their predicament, and as a result, they discover how powerful it is to rely on someone who has lived a different life than you and how many lessons there are to be learned from it.”
The actor hopes that viewers will take that message away from the show, stating, “There are people to depend on and to rely on in all different walks of life. Don’t write someone off just because you don’t think they’ll support you. They might. They desire the same things you do.”
By the time Boots comes to a conclusion, every one of the remaining recruits has completed training and is prepared to serve. The final scene depicts the group celebrating their achievement before being sidetracked by news coverage of a continuing invasion, which serves as a reminder of what comes next: actual military duty.
Moore, who discussed introducing the show’s misunderstood antagonist, did not dismiss the possibility of another season, telling Us, “I believe we only scratch the surface with Slovacek before season 2. If we are given the chance to go again, exploring him a little more would be a truly wonderful story. I’m just hoping that viewers are interested in him.”
He went on to say: “All of the characters are wonderful, but I know that everyone I know knows the Slovacek who doesn’t really get the chance to become anything. I believe he is highly representative of many young men who simply require some direction. They possess a talent and an abundance of passion.”
Boots can be viewed on Netflix right now.
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