There are so many questions I have about Sleepaway Camp (1983), primarily having to do with its origin. What was writer/director Robert Hiltzik’s intention when making it? Was it supposed to be a Friday the 13th rip-off or was it supposed to be a spoof? Was it meant to be a serious horror film or a horror-comedy? I take it as all these things and more; whatever it is, I love it!
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What makes me question intentions is the uneven tone of the film, particularly with the acting. In general, it’s no better or worse than other slashers of the era; however, Desiree Gould as Aunt Martha is so over the top that it stands out and must have a purpose. In a way, since she’s ultimately responsible for the horrific events, it’s like she’s channeling Dr. Evil from an Austin Powers movie.
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Eight years after a boating accident in which one of two children was killed, Angela (Felissa Rose), who was adopted by Aunt Martha and her husband, and her cousin, Ricky (Jonathan Tiersten) go to Camp Arawak for the summer. Obviously traumatized, Angela doesn’t speak and becomes the butt of other campers’ jokes, leaving Ricky to defend her.
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Would his defenses go as far as to include murder? When those who taunted Angela start dying, Mel (Mike Kellin), the owner of the camp, is certain that Ricky’s responsible. This seems unrealistic to me; it’s a red herring that’s forced down our throats and it’s one of the reasons that makes me think Sleepaway Camp is a comedy or a spoof.
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Most of the subject matter is treated seriously, though, and there are some real scares. When watching it recently, I noticed something new about the ending in which the shocking twist is revealed. Even as it hangs there in front of us, the look on Angela’s face and her extended scream are truly frightening. They’ve haunted me for days.
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Chances are you’re aware of the twist, but once you’ve seen it, you can’t take it back. Therefore, I recommend subsequent viewings to experience what else is happening in Sleepaway Camp. Watch for clues you may have missed the first time. Watch for related themes that contribute believability to what will eventually make your jaw drop.
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Much has been written about whether it’s a gay friendly movie or if it’s homophobic. It’s full of, not gay subtext, but gay text. Young Angela and her brother giggle as their father sleeps with another man. There’s no female skin, but the young men go skinny-dipping. This takes us full circle back to my original question about the Hetzlik’s intentions.
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