Ep 10. Best Boy

Best Boy is a moving and intimate documentary that follows the life of 52-year-old Philly who has Down syndrome and his cousin, filmmaker Ira Wohl. The documentary is part of POV season 1, episode 10, and portrays the daily struggles and triumphs of Philly as he navigates his life in a world that is not always kind to individuals with disabilities.

The film begins with Philly who lives in an adult care facility. His daily routine involves mundane tasks such as folding laundry, vacuuming, and cleaning, but he takes pride in his work and his accomplishments. Philly's cheerful and upbeat personality is infectious as he goes about his daily life with enthusiasm and determination. He is always willing to lend a helping hand to his fellow residents, and he uses his job as a Best Boy to earn a small income that helps him buy some of the things he wants.

Philly's family is deeply involved in his life. His mother, whom he adores, visits him regularly at the facility, and he cherishes their time together. Ira, his cousin and the filmmaker behind Best Boy, is also a constant presence in Philly's life. The two cousins share a close bond, and they have been through a lot together. Ira has been fiercely protective of Philly since they were young, and he never hesitates to stand up for him.

The film also follows the relationship dynamics between Ira and his family, especially his uncle and aunt, Philly's parents. We see the tensions and disagreements between them about Philly's care and living arrangements. While Ira wants Philly to have more independence, his parents are reluctant to let him go and want him to stay in the institution where he feels safe.

Best Boy is a poignant exploration of Philly's life and his relationship with Ira. It sheds light on some of the challenges that people with disabilities face, such as institutionalization, social isolation, and lack of independence. Still, it's also an uplifting film that captures Philly's resilience, warmth, and humor. He is a living testament to the power of love and family and the importance of supporting those who are different.

Overall, Best Boy is a moving and insightful documentary. It offers viewers a glimpse into the life of Philly and his family and highlights the importance of accepting and celebrating people's differences. This episode of POV season 1 is a must-see for anyone who cares about social justice, equal rights, and the power of human connection.