Eccentric staff members of an upstate New York theatre camp must band together when their beloved founder falls into a coma.
Theater Camp is a delightful and heartwarming cinematic experience that celebrates the passion for performance and the magic of the stage. Directed and co-written by the talented duo of Molly Gordon and Nick Lieberman, this film brings to life the vibrant world of a children's theatre camp in upstate New York, offering a charming mix of satire and affectionate homage.
At its core, Theater Camp taps into the primal urge that many share – the unquenchable desire to step onto a stage and express ourselves through the art of acting. The film adopts a comic mockumentary style, immediately drawing viewers into the colourful and quirky world of this summer camp dedicated to the dramatic arts.
The story kicks off with a crisis as the camp's beloved founder, Joan Rubinsky (played by the talented Amy Sedaris), falls ill, necessitating a change in leadership. Joan's son, Troy, portrayed by Jimmy Tatro, steps into her shoes with mixed results, setting the stage for an entertaining and sometimes tumultuous journey.
What truly makes Theater Camp shine is its exceptional ensemble cast, who infuse the film with boundless enthusiasm and genuine charm. Ben Platt and Molly Gordon, who play camp counsellors Amos and Rebecca-Diane, bring authenticity and depth to their roles. Noah Galvin joins the ensemble, adding to the film's genuine feel and emotional resonance.
One of the film's standout features is its ability to appeal to both theatre aficionados and those less acquainted with the world of drama. Janet, portrayed by Ayo Edebiri, serves as a relatable surrogate for the non-theatre kid audience, adding an element of humour and authenticity to the story.
The film cleverly navigates the single-minded dedication of the camp counsellors to the sacred act of artistic creation, even as they remain blissfully oblivious to the looming foreclosure threatening their beloved camp. Jimmy Tatro's portrayal of Troy, Joan's crypto-fanatic vlogger son, adds a humorous dimension to the narrative with his quirky antics and penchant for acronyms.
Throughout the film, moments of laughter abound, thanks to the cleverly crafted one-liners and the outstanding performances of the cast. The improvisational approach taken by the filmmakers adds a gentle and sweet touch to the humour, making it all the more endearing.
Beneath its humour and satire, Theater Camp carries a deeper message of encouragement for young people to embrace their individuality and be proud of their quirks. It serves as a heartwarming love letter to theatre kids, assuring them that it's perfectly acceptable to be different and that there's a community of like-minded individuals ready to welcome them with open arms.
Theater Camp is a film that balances self-deprecating satire with a profound love for the theatre community. It brilliantly captures the essence of the theatre world while delivering a message of self-acceptance and celebrating the beauty of being unique. With its witty script, well-executed direction, and a cast that exudes passion, this film is a delightful and heartening experience for audiences of all backgrounds. It's a reminder that the world of theatre is a place where dreams come alive, and where misfits find their true home.
Theater Camp was released in NZ cinemas from September 7, 2023