Making the Boys

Making the Boys is a compelling and in-depth 2011 documentary film that sheds light on the rich history and enduring impact of Mart Crowley's groundbreaking play, "The Boys in the Band." Directed by Crayton Robey, the film gathers an impressive lineup of influential figures from Edward Albee, a celebrated playwright to Joe Allen, a well-known NYC restaurateur, and Matt Baney, a theatrical producer, among others.

Set against the backdrop of New York, the documentary unfolds in a captivating manner, encouraging the audience to look back at the play's inception and premiere in 1968, its significance in ushering in a wave of gay consciousness, and the backlash it faced from the gay community for depicting stereotypes.

In Making the Boys, director Robey not only pays homage to the iconic play but also weaves together a rich tapestry of LGBT history, chronicling the struggles for representation and acceptance. The film gives contextual evidence of the socio-political environment in America during the late 1960s and ’70s, exploring the complexities of gay life during that era while capturing the zeitgeist of the pre-Stonewall and post-Stonewall periods.

The film is structured in an engaging way, borrowing from interviews, archival footage, and scenes from the play, bringing the past vividly alive. The unique directorial approach walks the fine line between presenting hard facts and ensures emotional authenticity.

Edward Albee, widely regarded for his play "Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?," and a contemporary of Mart Crowley, brings valuable insight about the playwright's challenges, the time during which the play was written and its monumental impact on theatre and society at large.

Joe Allen, owner of an eponymous theatre district restaurant that was frequented by Crowley and the original Boys cast, provides his unique perspective, recalling the vibrant energy and social dynamics of the era, which gives a personal touch to the narrative.

Matt Baney, a producer, and playwright, also brings his expertise to the film, sharing his thoughts on the play’s relevance and how it has withstood the test of time, providing commentary on the power it had and continues to wield within the LGBT community and beyond.

Featuring valuable insights from critics, actors who starred in the play and film adaptation, and other influential figures, the film provides a complex rendering of the significance of "The Boys in the Band" in theatre and gay history. It debunks myths, addresses criticism, and showcases the multifaceted reactions and the societal impact the play had, thus giving an all-encompassing view of the subject.

Making the Boys explores themes of acceptance, representation, identity, and transformation. It draws attention to the struggle for acceptance in both the personal and public aspects of life and the courage it takes to confront and renounce societal norms.

By delving into the legacy of "The Boys in the Band," the documentary simultaneously explores the narrative of the LGBTQ community in a broader sense, from the underground culture of the mid-20th century to the eventual ushering in of a more open, accepting era.

In the process of paying tribute to a groundbreaking play and documenting a key moment for gay culture, Making the Boys highlights the immense talent and brilliance of Mart Crowley. It brings attention to his ability to encapsulate a snapshot of gay life in a particular era and how – despite controversy – it played a crucial role in shaping the landscape of gay theater and culture.

Making the Boys is more than just the story of a play; it offers a compelling study of society, politics, and the power of representation. It is an essential watch not just for fans of "The Boys in the Band", but for anyone interested in understanding the hardships and triumphs of the gay community, their representation within the arts, and the intersection of art and societal change.