BOYHOOD

1. What American Values are reflected in the movie?

By the dedicated scenes, the film “ Boyhood” reflects three basic
American values which make viewers pause to consider. These are
individual freedom, equality of opportunities and material wealth. The film
does not mostly focus on equality of freedom and material wealth. The
film concentrates on the individual freedom value by the process of
Mason’s growth.
In terms of material wealth’s value:
- Financial challenges: the film depicts examples of economic struggle
which Mason’s family has to face and overcome. In one scene of the
film, Olivia decides to move from Texas to Houston to go on
studying at university. She makes this decision because she
experiences difficulties in providing for her family. She strongly
believes that her children would have the opportunity for a better life
if she had further knowledge.
- Access to resources: Mason’s ability to take part in educational
aspects or extracurricular depends on his family’s financial situation.
This is one of the reasons why his mother wants to change the city to
work and live.
- Changing living conditions: Because of divorces and remarriages,
Olivia and her children experience a different living environment.
This is highlighted by the houses they live in and the possessions
they have.
In terms of equality of opportunities’ value:
- Educational opportunities: Everyone in different age categories can
still have the right to study further. A typical example is Olivia.
Although she has 2 children, it means she has to spend most of her
time taking care of her children; she still tries to move to her
mother’s house to study for PhD in psychology. Moreover, Samantha
(Mason’s sister) and other step siblings still have equal opportunities
to grow up. The parent characters always try to create the
environment where the children can develop their potential.
In terms of individual freedom:
- Personal choices: We can easily see this value via Mason’s character.
He navigates his paths, makes decisions, and learns how to be self-
sufficient. These things prove that an individual's journey is unique
and shaped by their actions. Instead of being the same as peers, he
chose to go to university, away from his mother’s protection to
explore the new world.
- Personal creativity: In the film, Mason is encouraged to develop
creativity and explore passion. Mason registers to join some clubs in
the university like painting, writing poems, playing instruments. He
triumphs over the old society’s prejudices about man’s habit to find
his strengths. He expresses himself in his way through them.
- The pursuit of happiness: This value is strongly seen by Olivia
(Mason’s mother). Although she overcame unhappy marriages, she
still believed and found another lover. Olivia continuously wishes
for a loving family with husband and wife, parents and children.
This is the reason why she is willing to expose her heat to the men
who approach her.

2. What do you learn about the modern American family?

After seeing the whole movie, I have learned my lessons which I will
always remember:
Sex education:
- From my point of view, I strongly believe that sex education is very
crucial at present. Vietnamese people tend to avoid sharing this
problem with their children because they think that this is a sensitive
problem and they can protect their children everywhere, everytime.
However, unexpected things can happen. Therefore, we should
normalize sex education and talk to children as soon as possible.
Family connection:
- The film depicts the close bond between parents and children. In
terms of the relationship between father and children, they try to
spend as much time as possible with each other. Even if parents
divorce, the relationships still endure. In terms of the relationship
 between mother and children, Olivia always spends time telling
stories before going to bed for her children.
- Although there are many challenges, parents and children are always
the comfort zone for each other.
Teaching methods:
- The film takes an alternative approach to raise children. Parents
should not constantly “monitor”. Instead, they should let them grow
up on their own and by their side when needed.
- Respect children’s thinking: When making a decision, parents
always inquire and listen to their children’s opinion. If parents want
their child to do something, spend time explaining and analyzing it
for them to understand.
- Balanced treatment between children: Children are aware of how
their parents treat them. Unfairness will build an unseen gap
between parents and children, as well as between siblings.