POSITIVE

     The history of the teen summer camp movie is far from exalted, and the opening moments of "Camp Nowhere" may make you fear that it's another "Meatballs." Oddly enough, though, it turns out to be nothing of the sort. Instead of the usual coming-of-age coarseness, this celebration of kid power is a rather tame affair. It's sweet, likable and even vaguely hip. It's a relief to see a children's film that portrays kids as resourceful and self-reliant. 

     Directed by Jonathan Prince, "Camp Nowhere" is old-fashioned and borderline corny, but here and there the comedy turns delightfully weird. For example, Parents' Day includes a hilarious kids' production of a scene from "A Streetcar Named Desire" as part of what the campers call "Tennessee for Tots."

     Maybe "Camp Nowhere" is more easily praised for what it isn't than for what it is. Still, it's not half bad.

Reviewer Rating: N/A

Edited For Use By: Aron Mrugalski
CampNowhere.com
November 16, 2002

Original Text By: Hal Hinson 
Washington Post Staff Writer 
August 27, 1994

MIXED

     "Camp Nowhere" looks absolutely dreadful from the trailers (theatrical previews) but it proves to be a reasonably pleasant diversion. 

     As you might expect, most of the movie is made up of the kids' attempts to cover up the scheme, so their parents don't catch on, while they romp in the mud, have food fights and gather around the television to catch "Beverly Hills 90210." (The "popcorn omelet" so prominently featured in the trailer is not in the movie, however.)

     But the film's best laughs come from Lloyd's antics, as he adopts several disguises and accents to help their efforts. (Wendy Makkena, the sweet, innocent nun in "Sister Act," is charming, if nearly unrecognizable, as a teacher attracted to Lloyd.)

     The youngsters in the cast are appealing and the film is amusing, though it never quite builds up the head of steam it seems to be aiming for. But it is innocent fun and should appeal to the pre-teen audience.

Reviewer Rating: 2 Stars, Out Of Four (4)

Edited For Use By: Aron Mrugalski
CampNowhere.com
November 16, 2002

Original Text By: Chris Hicks 
Deseret News Movie Critic 
August 09, 1994

MIXED

     This sometimes funny, sometimes tiresome summer camp comedy should be a hit with Christopher Lloyd fans (although he has less screen time than the film's marketing would have you believe). The storyline is a bit of a mess but, somehow, hangs together. The comically suspenseful final act is the best part. 

Reviewer Rating: 2½ Stars, Out Of Five (5)

Original Text By: At-A-Glance Film Reviews

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