Magic Camp (2020)

Great watch, will watch again, and do recommend. I saw Adam Devine first (on Disney+ of all places, he's not usually Disney compliant), and said, "Oh this will be good, at least I won't have to pay close attention.", then saw "Magic Camp", and said, "Sold!", knowing I'd have to be watching magic tricks. I'm a fan of magic, but I tend to watch them like I do movies, critically. And when they're in movies ("Now You See Me") what you're actually watching for is what is semi-legitimate and what is a movie magic effect. While the beginning is a little disappointing, it has to do with the establishing part of the movie. The (obvious) misdirection of it also parallels a magic trick, as does the pace of the movie (and it's directly discussed in the movie.). Suddenly discovering Jillian Jacobs' involvement was great, and so is she, even if she's a part-time antagonist as a rival counselor. Basically, for me, there is a better movie / story in here if you remove Adam Devine as the protagonist. The kids' story(ies) are far more satisfying that the adults, and they very much deserved their own movie. While I see a comparison to "School of Rock", Adam Devine is not Jack Black, and his character doesn't really give the redeemable feel. It might come down to Devine's acting ability, but he's just not likeable. He says and does the things that should make him likeable, but it comes of as disingenuous. He's still a jerk, but he grows to love magic. Again though, this is highly recommended, and I would have loved to just see their talent show as a recorded live performance. If you love magic, then give this a watch.

Adam DeVine is good, but 'Magic Camp' is formulaic and plain. It does end up having a minute amount of charm to it, but for the most part it's predictable and cringey - due to its forced, if admittedly hearty, set of narratives for the characters. The ending, when all that comes to the fore, is a little sickly. The magic tricks are done well, mind. DeVine is enjoyable, though I already like him from TV's 'Workaholics' so that may play a part in how I see him in this. Jeffrey Tambor is solid, while Nathaniel McIntyre does a fine job in the lead role. Too queasy for my liking. "Institute of Magic" would've been such a better title, by the way.