Netflix has released the first teaser trailer for Boots, a new eight-part comedic drama about a closeted teenager who joins the US Marine Corps in the 1990s. The series, starring 13 Reasons Why actor Miles Heizer and Oscar nominee Vera Farmiga, premieres globally on October 9.
In the trailer, Heizer’s character Cameron Cope makes a life-changing decision to enlist in the military, even though being gay in the armed services remains illegal.
“My life needs a change, sir. I want to be somebody else,” Cameron tells a recruiter.
The recruiter responds: “Son, boot camp is the machine that turns boys into men. In 13 weeks, you won’t even recognise yourself. Are you sure you’re ready for that?”
As Cameron arrives at the Marine base, a drill sergeant storms onto the bus and barks orders, prompting him to mutter nervously: “Oh, dear.”
From memoir to screen
Boots is inspired by Greg Cope White’s memoir The Pink Marine, which chronicled his experiences as a gay man in the US Marines during the 1980s.
The series shifts the timeline to the 1990s and is created by Andy Parker (Tales of the City). It is executive-produced by the late TV legend Norman Lear.
Netflix describes the show as “an irreverent, off-beat take on the coming-of-age story,” combining the intensity of military life with sharp comedy and heartfelt drama.
According to the official synopsis, the series follows Cameron and his best friend Ray McAffey (Liam Oh), the son of a decorated Marine, as they join a diverse group of recruits. Together, they must endure the challenges of boot camp, forge unexpected bonds, and discover their true selves in an environment designed to break them down.
Boots premieres October 9 on Netflix.
