Camp

[desperance]

Oh, good grief. Am I the last person in the world to discover Camp? In case not, then be aware: it's a take on 'Fame' set in a summer camp (that's Camp Ovation, kids) that specialises in the performing arts. And the title is not in the least ironic, the whole film is as camp as a field full of pink tents (I was going to say a caravanserai full of camels, but that would be just too subtle), and it has absolutely everything you'd expect from the description above, and (with one exception) absolutely nothing that you wouldn't. It's got about as much edge as a deflating balloon. But! These kids sing Sondheim in the bus! And it's fabulous! and heartwarming! and, and, and! and (here comes the bit you didn't expect) - fanboy squee for the fanfare - it's got Stephen Sondheim actually in it, in person, his own self, right there, on the screen, getting out of a car and everything! And he speaks! And is condescending to the drunk Broadway has-been who is rediscovering his sense of purpose!

Oh, it's a joy. Now all I need is a decent print, because I taped it off the telly on a night when Mr Interference was in town and dancing.