Gone Guys

Over the past fifty years, boys and young men have steadily disengaged from school, work, and broader society. They’re falling behind academically, struggling with loneliness and isolation, and facing rising rates of substance abuse and suicide. This 45-minute documentary draws on the influential work of Richard V. Reeves’ “Of Boys and Men”, illuminating these challenges through powerful data and compelling personal stories. Many of us have experienced these issues first-hand, but it can be difficult to talk about them. It’s not an either-or choice: caring more about boys and men does not mean caring less about women and girls. Set in rural Vermont, the film brings national data to life with engaging animation accompanying lived experience featuring young men, educators, mentors, and trailblazing programs that are working to re-engage boys and young men in their communities and reshape their futures. 

Gone Guys explores a “quiet crisis” in our communities, hidden in plain sight: the increasing disengagement and isolation of boys and young men. 

“This is an issue we are hearing more and more about from parents, educators, business owners, and others,” said Dan Smith, President & CEO of the Vermont Community Foundation. “Something is out of sync for many boys and young men, and it’s showing up in classrooms, job sites, and communities. As a community, we must hold two truths at once: that advancing opportunity for women and girls remains essential—and that boys and young men are struggling in ways we can no longer ignore. Gone Guys invites us to face that complexity with care, curiosity, and a willingness to listen.” 

The film invites viewers into a timely, necessary conversation about the challenges facing boys and young men today. Since premiering in 2025, Gone Guys, the documentary has been drawing crowds to screenings paired with thoughtful community discussions. 

Through personal stories, striking data, and expert insight, the film examines how issues like struggles in school, loneliness, and even radicalization are taking root in the lives of young men—and what communities can do about it. 

Film screening and discussion of the difficulties boys have growing up with so many discordant and toxic messages coming in from media; public, private and social. This film will also create a panel discussion on how to provide support for boys as they mature into confident young men.

This event will raise funds for local non profit organizations working with youth.