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CAMP Send This Review to a Friend
The fun in "Camp," Todd Graff's exuberant new film, is cheerfully infectious as we get to know a group of stage-struck teenagers and share their aspirations and growing pains. Graff has cleverly reached back into some of his own experiences and come up with a joyously entertaining fictional treatment set in Camp Ovation, which is akin to an actual camp in which youngsters eager to perform enroll. The real summer camp is Stagedoor Manor, which Graff attended and where he also worked. Graff has created a set of endearing characters wonderfully played by his well-cast contingent. The film has the stamp of originality and enthusiasm.
Graff"s script is savvy, as the story introduces a has-been director who is slumming in his job of trying to shape the talent of the youngsters, and the relationship that evolves makes an interesting sub-plot. The themes include trying to find oneself, whether straight or gay, male or female, and generally emerging into a more insightful person by learning from the experience of being thrown together in this odd set-up.
Some of the musical numbers provide special fun as we watch the youngsters perform Broadway standards that at times hit the mark but also can be amusingly beyond their reach. You can find your own favorites among the large cast, which includes Daniel Letterle, Joanna Chilcoat, Robin De Jesus, Steven Cutts, Vince Rimoldi, Kahiry Bess, Tiffany Taylor, Sasha Allen, Alana Allen, Anna Kendrick, Julie Kleiner, Don Dixon and many, many more.
"Camp" is a delightful surprise that exemplifies what can happen when a writer-director is determined to bring his vision to the screen. An IFC Films release.
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