Camp Was Never This Good (A1)

I'm talking about "Wet Hot America Summer" (2001), a brilliant film that demonstrates slapstick humor and vulgar farce. By the way, that's a good thing. There aren't enough comedies that also employ a stellar ensemble cast. Janeane Garofalo, David Hyde Pierce, Paul Rudd, and Michael Showalter are some of the talented comedians showcased in this film. The story revolves around summer camp counselors and their last day at Camp Firewood in 1981. From the blunt announcement over the PA system to the characters' discrete sexual tensions (or lack thereof), finding true love (or a one-night stand) is the story's overall adventure.

What works in "Wet Hot American Summer" is the mixture of subtle and overt comedy. The script, which was penned by Michael Showalter and David Wain, reinforces this idea while also reverting to their improvisational sketch writing days when they worked on the Comedy Central series, "Stella." Imagine a humid environment entangled in debauchery, sarcasm, and hormonal impulses.
It proves to be a more effective comedy because the story is based in realism and the characters assure us of this. Unlike the mass-produced Will Ferrell movies churned out by the current box office, "Summer" remains an accurate reminiscence of youth and the hesistancy to grow up.

Here's a clip from the movie where the camp counselors sneak away from the camp and venture into town. This is probably my favorite part in the film because it is ridiculous in all respects, from the 80s power rock to the mayhem that ensues.