You might see the description for Netflix‘s new series “Boots” and think you know what to expect. A show about gay Marines in the 1990s? It sounds like it could be a heavy drama or a biting satire. But what creators Norman Lear and Matt Cook have delivered is something far more nuanced and, frankly, more interesting.
“Boots” is a unique blend. It’s part workplace comedy, part heartfelt romance, and part sobering look at a recent past where serving your country meant hiding your identity. It doesn’t fit neatly into one box, and that’s its greatest strength. This isn’t just a history lesson; it’s a story about people trying to find their place in a world full of contradictory rules.
What Is ‘Boots’ Actually About?
Set in 1990s California, “Boots” follows the lives of three gay Marines stationed at Camp Pendleton. The central character is Corporal Skylar “Sky” Risdon, played with charming vulnerability by Jake Picking. Sky is deeply dedicated to his career but is also secretly navigating a relationship with a civilian man.
His world is complicated by the arrival of a new, by-the-book commanding officer, Major Ed Buvgen, who begins actively investigating the personal lives of his subordinates. The threat of exposure and discharge under the military’s “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy (which was in effect from 1994 to 2011) looms over every interaction.
The Characters Drive the Story
The show’s heart lies in its characters. We don’t just see them as Marines or as gay men, but as fully realized people:
- Sky is the anchor, torn between his love for the Corps and his desire for an authentic life.
- His fellow Marines provide both comic relief and emotional support, showcasing the chosen family that forms in the ranks.
- The conflict with Major Buvgen avoids simple villainy, instead exploring the tension between military duty and personal prejudice.
A Strange but Effective Mix of Tones
This is where “Boots” becomes a fascinating watch. One moment, you’re laughing at the clever ways the Marines navigate their double lives. The next, you’re struck by the palpable fear and paranoia of a surprise inspection or an off-hand comment that could end a career.
It manages to feel like both a discrimination exposé and a recruitment ad for the Marines, as noted in The Hollywood Reporter’s initial review. The series doesn’t shy away from the injustice of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” but it also genuinely celebrates the camaraderie, discipline, and pride of military service. This balance is its boldest creative choice.
Why This Story Matters Now
“Boots” arrives at a potent time. While the U.S. military now allows open service by LGBTQ+ individuals, the themes of the show are far from settled history.
- It Connects Past to Present: The fight for equality didn’t end with the repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.” “Boots” serves as a crucial reminder of the progress made and the human cost behind it.
- Humanizing History: For younger viewers who never knew this policy, it’s an accessible entry point. For those who lived through it, it’s a powerful validation of their experiences.
- Universal Themes: At its core, “Boots” is about anyone who has ever had to hide a part of themselves to fit into a community they love. That struggle is timeless.
If you’re interested in this chapter of history, you can learn more about the official policy on the National Archives page about ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’.
Frequently Asked Questions About ‘Boots’
Is ‘Boots’ based on a true story?
While “Boots” is a fictional drama, it is heavily inspired by the very real experiences of gay and lesbian service members who served under the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy. The situations and characters are created for the show, but the emotional and professional dangers they face are historically accurate.
Who is the target audience for this show?
“Boots” has a broad appeal. It will resonate strongly with LGBTQ+ viewers and military families, but its themes of love, friendship, and integrity are universal. If you enjoy character-driven stories with both humor and heart, this is for you.
How can a show be both a comedy and about such a serious topic?
That’s the magic of “Boots.” Life is rarely all drama or all comedy. The show reflects reality, where people use humor as a coping mechanism and find joy even in difficult circumstances. The lighter moments make the serious stakes feel more impactful, and vice-versa.
Is there a real ‘Camp Pendleton’?
Yes, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton is a very real and major base located on the Southern California coast, making it an authentic setting for the series. For more military-themed stories, you can explore other Netflix military documentaries and series.
The Final Verdict: Should You Watch It?
In short, yes. “Boots” is a confident, well-acted, and surprisingly balanced series. It doesn’t preach; it presents. It allows you to understand the appeal of Marine Corps life while being crystal clear about the profound unfairness of the policy that forced its characters to live in fear.
It’s a tribute to a generation of service members who served in silence, and a compelling story about the courage it takes to be your true self. Give the first episode a watch. You’ll likely find yourself, as I did, invested in Sky’s journey and grateful that this piece of history is being told with such care and humanity.
