Theater Camp

Theater Camp is a great mockumentary that's constantly mining cringe for solid laughs. It's got just as much gleeful cynicism as it does real heart for a winning combination. Obviously it'll work better for theatre people but that doesn't mean it's even remotely inaccessible to anyone who isn't.

All the adults here get to show off their genuine love of performance whilst also sending themselves up in terrific fashion. While they're doing that the film offers a showcase for an immensely talented set of child actors who are all impressive performers with some superb comedic timing.

As directors, Molly Gordon and Nick Lieberman use the mockumentary techniques pretty effectively, when it actually remembers it's a mockumentary. All the intertitles add so much, it's the ideal run time and it culminates in the performance of Joan, Still which gets some of the best laughs before culminating in a wonderfully heartfelt moment.

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.

I loved this movie! I went to a Mystery Movie Night to see it, and most people around me were enjoying it- so I'm not sure why it's getting so much negativity. I laughed and laughed! It was wonderful to see true representation of theater kids and the glories and dysfunctions of this kind of group. I think a lot of people giving negative reviews do not know or appreciate the joy and diversity included in this most glorious group of humanity! I laughed, rolled my eyes, winced, and even cried. It is obviously for a niche group- but if you love theater or musicals, this movie is for you! It would be a great outing for a drama club to enjoy it and laugh together.

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.

I had not heard one thing about this movie.

I'd already seen Oppenheimer, Barbie, Mission: Impossible, and Sound of Freedom, so on a whim, I booked myself a double feature in a cool theatre on this hot summer day.

First up - another movie I knew nothing about: Shortcomings. An enjoyable R-rated movie.

Next: Theater Camp. I wasn't quite sure what I was getting into when it started, but Searchlight movies tend to be bring me joy in a variety of ways. Theater Camp did not disappoint. There were some great laughs, great performances (I never cease to be amazed by how much talent kids of all ages and sizes can have!!), and a great ending.

Theater Camp should be on your radar to go see. Enjoy!