Rated G
Directed by Matthew Diamond
Starring Joe, Nick and Kevin Jonas (The Jonas Brothers), Demi Lovato and Meaghan Jette Martin
Camp Rock is no High School Musical.
Camp Rock is a modern Cinderella story of teen pop wannabe Mitchie Torres (Demi Lovato). Unable to afford the country’s most prestigious rock camp, her mother gets a job as the cook so that Mitchie can attend as long as she helps out in the kitchen between classes. Befriended by fellow camp member Caitlyn (Alyson Stoner) but shunned by the rich and talented Tess Tyler (Meaghan Jette Martin) and her friends Peggy (Jasmine Richards) and Ella (Anna Maria Perez de Tagle), Mitchie lies about being the cook's daughter and poses as a well-to-do camper in order to become part of the hottest clique at camp. When she's overheard singing by teen pop star and celebrity camp instructor Shane Gray (Joe Jonas), he is completely taken and sets out to find the girl behind the beautiful voice. Meanwhile, Mitchie will have to learn how to confront her fears, as she “steps out of the kitchen and into the spotlight as herself.”
For years Disney Original Movies like The Cheetah Girls, High School Musical, Jump In! and others have been staples in my home (although I will not admit to watching all of them). I think we would all agree they are not great films but kids love them and Disney seems to be fine with that. Riding the success of High School Musical, Disney was quick to pump out its next big thing…Camp Rock.
It is certainly not the worst movie I have even seen (mostly because Matthew McConaughey is not in it, sorry Jonathan), but at best, it is mildly unentertaining. The story is basically “High School Musical” at a summer camp, using a similar plot with similar characters. Unfortunately both are more like second rate leftovers than fresh new originals. The Jonas Brothers are clearly the B-team next to Hannah Montana and the songs are nothing compared to the memorable songs of High School Musical. I know you are still singing, “Get your Head in the Game.”
I guess at the end of the day if you are a fan of the Jonas Brothers and/or Disney I think you will love Camp Rock. But if you are older than 12…Skip It.
SHOULD KIDS SEE IT?
There’s nothing offensive and a ton of great lessons…so pop the popcorn, get some soda …oh yeah and grab a book or something to keep you busy while your kids enjoy the next big Disney sensation.
Conversation Starter
Three Simple Questions (with Answers You May Be Looking for):
- What are some of the messages or themes you observed in this movie?
- How do you suppose we—as serious Christ-followers—should react to this movie?
- How can we move from healthy, Bible-based opinions about this movie to actually living out those opinions?
