Classics: A Review of Heavyweights By Lauren Ennis

For many summer will always be synonymous with camp. For generations summer camp has been the place where children first glimpse life beyond the watchful eyes of their parents and the confines of their schools. It is a place where adventures are had, friendships begin, and memories are made. what happens when that seasonal sanctuary is encroached upon? Middle schooler Jerry soon finds out when his parents send him to a camp for overweight boys. What ensues is an uproarious comedy that is at once an ode to self-acceptance and a loving tribute to all things summer. Soak up some sun with Jerry and the boys of Camp Hope in Heavyweights.

The story begins with Jerry leaving school to begin summer vacation. His elation soon turns to dismay however, when his parents inform him that they have signed him up for a stay at Camp Hope, a camp for overweight boys. Despite his misgivings, the camp is run by nurturing staff and he quickly makes friends with several fellow campers. What begins as fun in the sun soon takes a dark turn, however, when it is announced that the camp has been sold to fitness guru Tony Perkis. In an effort to market his fitness infomercial empire he makes it his personal mission to transform the camp from a healthy retreat for overweight children to a boot camp. It sup to the boys and the staff to overthrow the fitness fanatic and return hope to Camp Hope.

While the film received mixed reviews upon its release it has since gained status as a cult classic. The film's blend of family comedy and scathing satire made for viewing that was ahead of its time. Through its depiction of society's unhealthy obsessions with fame, fortune, and physical appearances the film offered a satirical send-up of 90's celebrity and fitness cultures. Tony's over the top antics take on a whole new meaning, however, within the context of today's social media culture in which influencers inspire culture followings and celebrities promote dubious diet drugs. Even as it delves into surprisingly dark territory, however the film remains at its core a family comedy. Through its messages about the value of friendship, the importance of self-acceptance, and the power of teamwork the film offers vital lessons without resorting to lecturing. Even as it imparts essential lessons the film keeps the laughter flowing and viewers coming back for second helpings. Seize the summer and take a trip to Camp Hope with the Heavyweights.  

The film transports viewers to the lazy, hazy, days of summer thanks to the work of its cast. Jerry Stiller and Anne Meara are utterly endearing in their brief turns as the camp's owners, the Bushkins. Leah Lali personifies warmth and girl next door as the camp's nurse, Julie. Tom Hodges perfectly balances slapstick and sinister as Tony's top counselor, Lars. Shaun Weiss and Kenan Thompson display comedic skills beyond their years as Gerry's friends Josh and Roy. Tom McGowan expertly balances humor, earnestness, and decency as camp alumnus turned counsellor, Pat. Aaron Schwartz makes for an ideal everyman as Jerry. Even in the midst of excellent ensemble performances Ben Stiller steals the film as the equal parts outrageous and terrifying Tony. While Stiller's performance aptly captured the dark side of 90's fitness culture in an era dominated by fitness influencers, crash diets, and weight loss drugs, his portrayal is nothing short of chilling.

At once a fun family comedy and a damning indictment of 90's fitness culture Heavyweights has more than earned its cult classic status. The blend of satire, slapstick, and heart makes for a script that will have the whole family rolling with laughter. The uproarious performances of the cast are sure to charm parents and kids alike. Have the last laugh with Jerry and the kids of Camp Hope in Heavyweights.