Heartwarming Tale of Long-Lost Friends

Read Time:4 Minute, 3 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Summer Camp
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Genre: Comedy
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 36m
Director(s): Castille Landon
Writer(s): Castille Landon
Cast: Diane Keaton, Kathy Bates, Alfre Woodard, Dennis Haysbert, Eugene Levy, Josh Peck, Nicole Richie, Betsy Sodaro, Beverly D’ Angelo
Where To Watch: in select theaters Nationwide on May 31, 2024

RAVING REVIEW: Prepare to rewind time and dive into the delightful world of SUMMER CAMP, where humor mixes with the poignant rediscovery of youthful bonds. This film reminds us of carefree days gone by and explores the profound impact of rekindling past friendships. The film is filled with nostalgic vibes, an incredible cast, and a coming-of-age story for adults. It is a must-see for those looking for a fun, lighthearted, and easygoing film with a poignant message to top it all off.

SUMMER CAMP takes viewers to the scenic campgrounds in Hendersonville, North Carolina, to “Camp Pinnacle,” where the film’s protagonists, Nora (Diane Keaton,) Ginny (Kathy Bates,) and Mary (Alfre Woodard,) spent their formative years forging lifelong friendships. Now, as adults, they return to these hallowed grounds, where the landscapes serve as a backdrop and a dynamic and authentic force adding to the film's look and feel.

The stellar ensemble cast, featuring Betsy Sodaro, Beverly D'Angelo, Eugene Levy, Josh Peck, Dennis Haysbert, and more, navigates the complexities and chaos of this return to camp with finesse. Keaton's portrayal of Nora, a widow who redirects her grief through work, Bates's portrayal of Ginny, a self-help guru battling unseen demons, and Woodard's portrayal of Mary, stuck in an unfulfilling marriage, all contribute relatability to their roles. These characters are here for fun but also tackle some heavier subjects at times during the film.

Castille Landon directed the film, which explores themes of aging and renewal. Landon blends lighthearted scenes with reflective moments, creating an entertaining and thoughtful viewing experience. The screenplay alternates between the present and some flashbacks, helping to piece together the narrative by deepening the audience’s understanding of the characters' past connections and their present reawakening. The story shines its brightest when it shows the characters overcoming hurdles.

Levy's portrayal of Stevie D adds a fun twist to the mix. His charismatic humor perfectly offsets the story's more solemn undertones. His contribution underscores the ensemble’s chemistry, infusing the storyline with warmth and laughter—a character you never know what to expect from with a story all his own.

SUMMER CAMP integrates serious societal concerns into its engaging plot. It was filmed at the real-life picturesque Camp Pinnacle, founded in 1928, which has stunning natural beauty. The production team overcame various challenges, particularly during the action-packed rafting scenes, ensuring the film captured the adventurous spirit. The production also helped renovate some staff cabins, leaving the site in better shape than when they arrived, helping preserve the grounds for future generations.

Released by Roadside Attractions to align with the narrative's thematic and seasonal essence, SUMMER CAMP will strike a chord with a broad audience. Its mix of genuine emotion and humor crafts a storyline that resonates with anyone who has faced the complexities of adulthood while longing for the simplicity of youth.

SUMMER CAMP invites viewers to reflect on their personal growth and the lasting impact of friendships. It offers a mix of laughter, nostalgia, and new perspectives, urging viewers to consider the possibility of rediscovery and self-reinvention through the powerful connections of their past. This film is a poignant reminder that sometimes, the journey back is the best path forward, making it a must-watch for those looking to reconnect with their past and envision a hopeful future.

#SummerCamp

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[photo courtesy of ROADSIDE ATTRACTIONS]

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