Theater Camp - A Movie Review

The theater is a magnificent world of imagination.

Rehearsing its show, Theater Camp arrived in theaters in 2023. The annual summer theater camp is back in full swing - but this time, it faces a series of challenges that threaten to derail the passionate young actors from their opening night.

I instantly fell in love with Theater Camp. It’s the best film for anyone involved in theater. Watching this movie brought back several memories of my time as a theatergoer. Theater Camp artfully embodies the vibrant world of theater, skillfully blending absurdity with a heartwarming celebration of the craft that has led to countless opportunities for individuals.

The ensemble is the heart of Theater Camp. Bringing their A-Game to the screen, the film has a diverse cast of characters, each with unique quirks and ambitions. All viewers will find someone to relate to.

Ben Platt and Molly Gordon are a brilliant comedic team as the theater directors. Amos and Rebecca take things a little too far wanting their show to be perfect. Their character's passion for the craft and unwavering support for their students create an inspiring portrayal of mentorship.

Jimmy Tatro was comical as Troy Rubinsky. Stepping in as camp director for his sickly mother, Troy has very little theater expertise. Noah Galvin was splendid as Glenn Winthrop who becomes an unexpected star. Fans of The Bear will recognize Ayo Edebiri playing a character who couldn’t care less about her job.

The heart and soul of Theater Camp lies in its remarkable ensemble of young, aspiring actors, who brilliantly portray the star-fever kids. They’re what this film is all about. Each kid has a diverse personality as the extrovert, over-achiever, or the kid joining theater for the first time.

On several occasions, my jaw dropped at their incredible singing voices. The film gives the young actors a fair share of screen time to showcase their talents. Their performances serve as a testament to the dedication that goes into honing their craft.

The mockumentary style serves the story exceptionally well, providing an intimate glimpse into the world of theater. The clever use of handheld cameras and confessional-style interviews adds a layer of authenticity. It allows the audience to feel like they’re part of the camp.

Directing as well as acting in their own movie, Molly Gordon and Nick Lieberman work hard, blending realism with absurdity and humor. They navigate the highs and lows of the theatrical world making the film an unforgettable experience.

Theater has always been a big part of my life and has helped me become more confident. Anyone who has been involved in the theater needs to see Theater Camp. It’s a genuinely funny movie. There were several times when my friend and I belted out laughing at how relatable situations were.

Aside from its comedic moments, Theater Camp is also a reminder about the challenges of theater like rejection and self-doubt. The film delivers a powerful message about perseverance, self-discovery, and the importance of staying true to oneself.

It's refreshing to see a film that celebrates diversity without making it the central focus. Instead, it effortlessly weaves these elements into the story, making it feel more authentic.

The final act of the film where the kids put on their show is the best moment in the movie. Putting a show to its feet is one of the best experiences, especially when it’s your first. Hopefully, this film inspires curious viewers to join the theater.

Go see this uplifting film with your theater friends. Theater Camp has joined my list of favorite films of this year.