Rowing into Movie Magic

By Charles Woo

May 17, 2024

On January 8th, 2024, JMS eighth grade students embarked on an enriching cinematic journey at Broadway Mall’s movie theater, immersing themselves in the inspiring film “The Boys in the Boat” before savoring shared moments and meals at the lively food court.

“The Boys in the Boat” was released in 2023 and is based on a true story from 1936, three years before the start of WWII. According to Google reviews, 90% of audiences enjoyed the movie. Overall, the 8th grade students also quite enjoyed this new film and thought it was a rollercoaster of emotions. There were laughs and cries from inside the movie theater and on the big screen. 

“The Boys in the Boat” is about an inexperienced rowing team that won a gold medal at the Olympics, despite the added challenge of using substandard equipment. This rags-to-riches story was significant because only nine people made the team out of hundreds who tried out. This team grew very close and won the Olympics against all odds, competing against skilled rowing teams like Germany and Italy. These young men made their country proud in 1936, and the movie portrayed this powerful moment in history.

Every class in the eighth grade rode on a different bus, and students went to a specific theater depending on which team they were on. Students had the option to purchase snacks, lunch, and drinks before and after watching the movie. Choices for lunch at the food court included Chinese food, Subway, pizza, and much more. Although it was a time to have fun with friends, it was also a public space that required students to behave respectfully. Students had an ample amount of time to enjoy their meals after the movie. 

“The Boys in the Boat” takes place during a period in American history that overlaps with the eighth grade social studies curriculum. According to eighth grade social studies teacher Ms. Vevante, “We [eighth graders] are going to learn about the period of the Great Depression, which is going to happen after the roaring 1920’s, a period of opulence and overspending. Then we are going to talk about the economic hardships that Americans experienced during the Great Depression and I think [the movie] will give everyone a visual in their heads of what it was like.”

Through watching the impactful movie “The Boys in the Boat,” JMS students not only witnessed the magic of the big screen but also forged lasting memories, fostering a sense of friendship and appreciation for the art of storytelling.