Clichés abound, Summer Camp is saved by three legendary leads

Director and writer Castile Landon shifts from erotica fan fiction to a friendship story in “Summer Camp” from Roadside Attractions. Nora (Diane Keaton), Ginny (Kathy Bates), and Mary (Alfred Woodard) have been best friends since they were inseparable at summer camp during their childhood. Despite their intense bond, the demands of adult life have led them to see each other less and less over the years.

When the opportunity to reunite for a summer camp reunion arises, they all approach it differently – some with reluctance and others with excitement. Despite the twists and turns of life, Nora, Ginny, and Mary’s unbreakable bond is a testament to the enduring power of friendship. The nostalgic setting of the summer camp reunion serves as a poignant reminder of their shared history and the unwavering support they provide for each other.

The portrayal of old friends reuniting in cinema is a delicate task, heavily reliant on the caliber of the cast. Fortunately, the director has assembled a stellar team, including two Oscar winners and a nominee. The storyline may lean towards cliché, but the esteemed actresses bring their A-game, exhibiting remarkable chemistry. Bates and Woodard, who convincingly portrayed a familial bond in ‘The Family That Preys (2008), bring their organic flair to the screen. Keaton, a radiant presence throughout her five-decade career, adds depth and nuance to her character, making the movie a must-watch for fans of these talented actors.

One of the script’s strengths is its empathetic approach to the characters. Each of our three protagonists navigates a significant crisis in the later stages of their lives. Keaton’s Nora, a widow, immerses herself in her work to mitigate the emptiness within. Bates’s Ginny, perpetually single and seeking external validation, masks her discontent with a façade of confidence while chasing fame through her devout followers in the Self Help community. While the always radiant Woodard portrays Mary as a woman who endures a loveless marriage, she remains spiritually unfulfilled despite being surrounded by family and colleagues

Over the short running time, the audience goes on a journey that offers a few chuckles as these women reconnect and rediscover their inner child, gaining clarity on what they truly desire and how best to achieve genuine happiness. I commend the script for avoiding potty humor and ageist jokes solely for comedic effect. The incorporation of the song “Pretty Girls Walk” is executed with precision. The male characters in the cast primarily fulfill archetypal roles. Josh Peck assumes the role of an enthusiastic camp worker, while Dennis Haysbert and Eugene Levy portray the former childhood crushes of two of the friends.

Nevertheless, while I doubt I’ll revisit the film as a one-time watch, I recommend “Summer Camp” for fans of the leads.

Final Grade: C+

“Summer Camp” opens in theaters today.