Making its world premiere at Los Angeles Film Festival, and quickly grabbing distribution with BET for airing in July, FAT CAMP is easily a “must see” film that fuels the funny for all!
Written by Chuck Hayward and directed by Jennifer Arnold, FAT CAMP is an irreverent look at embracing one’s self on the inside and ignoring the naysayers outside (even if that naysayer is you). Honing in on Hutch, a 20-something living at home with his mom now four-year post-college graduation, he can’t hold a job, doesn’t want to hold a job, and mom decides it’s time for some tough love and to kick her baby bird out of the nest. So she kicks him into the nest of Uncle Mike who just happens to run a summer “Fat Camp” for kids who want to get lean and limber. With a bad attitude that tends to initially alienate his young charges and everyone else Hutch meets, we eventually learn what’s behind his bravado and fear, adding dimension and depth to the character. Expect the usual camp hijinks (only tenfold), but more importantly, the friendships that develop between Hutch and fellow C.I.T. Charlie, all of the campers, and of course, the eye of Hutch’s affection, Abby.
Chris Redd keeps the comedy flowing as Hutch while Michael Cienfuegos shines as CIT Charlie. But watch out for the young campers played by Juliocesar Chavez, Bentley Green, Luke Clark and Steven Thomas Capp! These boys will steal your hearts and your funny bone. The only person to rival their charm is an hilarious over-the-top performance by Vivica A. Fox as Hutch’s mother.
Well known for his sharp editing of comedies, editor Brad Wilhite keeps the mood light and tight, moving the film along faster than you can say FAT CAMP, making you want to go back and visit again next summer! Although formulaic in structure, FAT CAMP is willfully offensive (in a good way), with Arnold pushing the envelope to great result that strikes an effective balance of sweetness and laughter.
Directed by Jennifer Arnold
Written by Chuck Hayward
Cast: Chris Redd, Vivica A. Fox, Michael Cienfuegos, Juliocesar Chavez, Bentley Green, Luke Clark and Steven Thomas Capp.
by debbie lynn elias, 06/13/2017
