Theater Camp

Theater Camp is a very funny modern take on the mockumentary style. For me, it is reminiscent of What We Do in the Shadows kind of humor. It pokes fun at everyone; there is no traditional everyman.

Both ends of the spectrum are laughed at. We get jokes at the expense of influencer, bro-ey type guys, and also the classic, quirky, theater-obsessed kids. I think thats part of what made it so enjoyable. EVERYONE was made into a satirical hyperbole of a cliché we all know.

The story was nice, too. It takes you all over the place and ties together in the end for a cute, and still funny, conclusion.

It really doesn't take itself too seriously, and is a very sweet watch.

Joan Rubinsky is the co-founder of a theater camp and during one of the show, she has a seizure which puts her in a coma. Her son Troy takes over the camp and finds it hard to belong there as bonding with the staff as well as the kids turns out to be a real challenge. They prepare to perform a new musical based on the life of Joan while Troy struggles to raise enough money to save the place. The sub-plot also involves the two teachers Amos and Rebecca, who are behind the musical and their career differences take a toll on their relationship. Despite all the odds, how the kids end up performing the show and will Troy be able to save the place forms rest of the story.

Initially I did find it hard to get on board with the narrative with it entirely being the off screen life of these kids as well as the camp runners, basically life of theater artists and their antics. But I got used to it on time enough to buy into the narrative. Sure, the writing felt superficial as the financial concern and how it was dealt it was downplayed along with the subplots involving the staffers, where their issues were resolved too easily. But the entire third act and the musical play itself worked it's charm. Overall, it was definitely a decent watch.

Many people love live theater. Even so, as non-actors, singers, or dancers themselves, many admire the finished product only, without considering all the hard work that goes into productions. My daughter and niece were theater kids growing up, so I get the "that was my life" connection, maybe more than most.

This movie will resonate with some people, but for many it will miss the mark. Sadly, it's a sweetly intended, behind-the-scenes, mockumentary style look at a world that not everyone can relate to, or will be interested in. I appreciate the efforts by the kids, but thought the story was a bit lacking, and the characters a little stereotypically overdone. That said, it's not a bad film, just not what I was expecting or hoping for.

... Idk maybe I'm a closeted Theatre guy, if u get my drift haha but ya, it just worked for me - basically it reminded me of one of the old ensemble casted Christopher Guest films, ya know with Eugene Levy and all the staple players - you remember right? Those fabulously fun mockumetararies? - and I've long regarded Ben Platt as one of the all time great voices (I'm certain I'm not alone in this, but I don't follow the musical theater zeitgeist) and although this doesn't showcase his musical prowess per se, it does use him effectively in a comedic role and it just works - I highly recommend it and YES I only gave it an 8 but that's only because I never give tens and 9s are reserved for films that are truely extraordinary (and Rick and Morty haha) anyway enjoy.

Very funny mockumentary. Fortunately, my watching experience was also great because the theater was full of laughter. Seems like a lot of people like it too. Really don't understand why people don't find this movie funny.

I will say tho, there's no super deep, poetical, metaphorical story behind it. So just don't expect coming out of it with a new revelation or question about life. Just take it at face value. It's a funny movie. Set at a theater camp. With talented kids. And talented teachers and stage men. Some really great music pieces. With normal level of daily drama sprinkled through out. And lots of laughs and weird antics.

It's enjoyable and heartwarming. Which i think is just how mockumentary usually feels. And that's enough as a perfect summer movie! And i honestly don't think this is fully targeted for adults.

I'm not opposed if they adopt this as a tv series. I think that will be really enjoyable to stream.