Sunday, December 10, 2023

Theater Camp (2023)

 Pros: Filled with quirky, bordering on unrealistic characters, this film's message might have been countless times before, but it remains as effective as ever. Packed with great performances, this film details a dying summer theater camp for those hopeful to make it big time though most just want to feel like they have a place to belong. However, this year, the camp is in danger of folding as the owner, Joan (Amy Sedaris) remains in a coma following a seizure and her son, aspiring business mogul, Troy (Jimmy Tatro) takes over. Troy has no clue about theater or why it matters but his transformation as he watches a show portraying his mother's life, his whole perspective changes and it's wonderful to see. 

Cons: While there are tons of characters with decent arcs and great acting, there are just too many of them, especially the children for them to be truly fleshed out and it also plays it safe, with only minimal drama between the campers. And when Joan wakes up from her coma, she's wide awake instantly, which is beyond unrealistic. Still, overall, the film was incredibly enjoyable.

Grade: B

Side Notes:

-The cast is amazing and most of the main characters also wrote and directed the film: Noah Galvin, Molly Gordon, Ben Platt, Caroline Aaron, Patti Harrison, Nathan Lee Graham and Ayo Edebiri.

-Edebiri's character turns out to be a talent agent in a failed attempt at a funny plot twist.

-The original show on Joan's life comes together quickly but perfectly.

-Pay attention to the airbnb guest.

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