Ernest Goes to Camp Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A goofball gets a job as a camp counselor for juvenile delinquents and somehow prevents a mining company from destroying their summer fun, all while making weird faces.

🍿 Ernest Goes to Camp: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Ernest’s Ambitions at Kamp Kikakee

Ernest P. Worrell works as a handyman at Kamp Kikakee, a summer camp with Native American traditions. He dreams of becoming a camp counselor and ‘shaping young minds.’ Ernest is skilled in Plains Indian Sign Language, which allows him to communicate with Chief St. Cloud, the camp’s owner.

The Second Chancers Arrive

A group of juvenile delinquents, known as the ‘Second Chancers,’ arrives at Kamp Kikakee as part of a rehabilitation program. They are initially placed under the supervision of the strict Counselor Stennis, who treats them harshly. After an incident where Stennis endangers one of the boys, the Second Chancers retaliate, injuring him. With Stennis unable to continue, Ernest is given the opportunity to become their counselor.

Ernest and the Second Chancers Bond

The Second Chancers initially give Ernest a hard time, but their relationship begins to improve after Nurse St. Cloud shares a story about a Native American warrior’s initiation ritual. The boys begin to respect Ernest, but their newfound camaraderie is tested when their tepee is burned down by a rival camper. Ernest steps in to prevent their expulsion.

Krader Mining Company’s Scheme

Meanwhile, Sherman Krader, head of an evil mining corporation, seeks to acquire Kamp Kikakee to mine a valuable mineral called petrocite. Chief St. Cloud refuses to sell, so Krader manipulates Ernest into getting the chief to sign a land lease under false pretenses. Realizing his mistake, Ernest vows to fix the situation.

Taking a Stand

Ernest and the Second Chancers confront the mining company, but Ernest is beaten up by the foreman, Bronk. The Second Chancers initially lose faith in Ernest, but Nurse St. Cloud reminds them that he’s the only one who has ever stood up for them. They decide to help Ernest save the camp.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Ernest P. Worrell (Jim Varney): A well-meaning but clumsy handyman at Kamp Kikakee who dreams of becoming a camp counselor.
• Nurse St. Cloud (Victoria Racimo): A kind-hearted nurse at Kamp Kikakee who acts as a translator for her grandfather and cares for the campers.
• Sherman Krader (John Vernon): The ruthless businessman who tries to swindle Kamp Kikakee for its petrocite deposits.
• Bronk Stinson (Lyle Alzado): Krader’s imposing foreman who uses physical intimidation to get his way.
• Chief St. Cloud (Iron Eyes Cody): The wise, traditional Native American owner of Kamp Kikakee.
• Bobby Wayne (Patrick Day): One of the juvenile delinquents, ‘second chancers’ who becomes a friend to Ernest.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Ernest P. Worrell: “KnowhutImean?” – Ernest’s signature catchphrase, used frequently throughout the film to engage and connect with others.
• Ernest P. Worrell: “I did it! I took the Lindbergh baby! I am Josef Mengele! Aaahhh!” – Ernest yells this nonsensically while getting a shot, exaggerating the pain in a comedic way.
• Ernest P. Worrell: “Paper, rock, scissors.” – Ernest says this after stopping Krader’s rifle from firing, referencing the Native American legend.
• Ernest P. Worrell: “What they wanted was a hero. All I needed was a friend.” – A poignant line from the song “Gee I’m Glad It’s Rainin’,” expressing Ernest’s feelings of loneliness and failure.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $3,500,000
• Domestic Gross: $23,509,382
• Worldwide Gross: $23,509,382

💥 Ernest Goes to Camp Reviews

Personal Review

I watched this movie countless times as a kid, and it still brings a smile to my face. Jim Varney’s energy is infectious, and even though the jokes are silly, they’re undeniably funny. The scene where Ernest sings ‘Gee I’m Glad It’s Raining’ always gets me, because it showed the heart underneath the goofiness. It’s a feel-good movie that reminds me of simpler times.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of slapstick comedy”
  • “Families looking for a lighthearted movie”
  • “Those who enjoy 80s comedies”
  • “Fans of Jim Varney”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Mild slapstick violence”
  • “Some culturally insensitive depictions of Native Americans (considered outdated by today’s standards)”
  • “Brief mild language”

Professional Reviews

• IMDb User Review: “While the humor is sophomoric, it’s done well. Jim Varney is likable as Ernest, even if the plot is thin and the sentimentality is cloying. It’s a fun, silly movie for kids and those who enjoy a bit of low-brow humor.
• Common Sense Media: “Goofy slapstick and silly situations make this Ernest adventure a lighthearted, if somewhat predictable, family film. While some humor may be dated, kids will still enjoy Ernest’s antics and the underdog story.

Audience Reactions

The slapstick comedy and Jim Varney’s physical performance were incredibly funny and memorable.: Viewers generally agree that the film is a lighthearted, fun watch despite its predictable plot.

It provided heart-warming lessons with a strong moral backbone: While this film may be a bit cheesy for some audiences, there is lots to love in this heart-warming 80s family film

Overall Consensus: A lighthearted and silly family film with Jim Varney’s energetic performance as Ernest being the main draw, though some find the humor dated and the plot predictable.

Awards

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “Jim Varney sang the song “Gee I’m Glad It’s Raining” in one take; reportedly, there wasn’t a dry eye on set when he finished.”
• “The film was shot on location at Montgomery Bell State Park in Burns, Tennessee.”
• “Iron Eyes Cody’s appearance as Chief St. Cloud was his final on-screen role.”

🖥️ How to Watch Ernest Goes to Camp?

As of today, June 1, 2024, “Ernest Goes to Camp” is available for rent or purchase on various digital platforms, including Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, and Vudu. Check your preferred platform for current pricing and availability. Physical copies on DVD and Blu-ray are also available through major online retailers.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Ernest Goes to Camp, you might like these similar films:

• Meatballs (1979): Classic summer camp comedy with a focus on misfit campers and heartwarming shenanigans.
• Heavyweights (1995): A group of overweight kids at a weight-loss camp band together to overthrow a fitness obsessed owner.
• Little Rascals (1994): A group of rambunctious kids get into silly antics.
• Camp Rock (2008): A modern Disney Channel movie centered around a music camp and a group of teenagers finding their voices.
• Wet Hot American Summer (2001): A cult comedy that hilariously satirizes the tropes of summer camp movies.

🛒 Ernest Goes to Camp Related Products

• Ernest Goes to Camp [Blu-ray]: Enjoy Ernest’s camp adventures in high-definition with this Blu-ray edition. Features enhanced picture and sound quality for a nostalgic viewing experience.
• Funko Pop! Movies: Ernest Goes to Camp – Ernest P. Worrell: Add this Funko Pop to your collection, capture Ernest’s signature goofy grin, and showcase your fandom with this adorable collectible figure.
• Ernest T-Shirt: Know What I Mean, Vern?: Show your love for Ernest with this T-shirt, featuring the iconic catchphrase. Made from soft, comfortable material for everyday wear.
• Ernest Goes To Camp Throw Pillow: Decorate your home in style with this Ernest Goes To Camp themed pillow! This decorative accent is perfect for adding a fun touch to any room.

🎧 Soundtrack

Ernest Goes to Camp features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Gee I’m Glad It’s Rainin'” – performed by Jim Varney
• “Brave Hearts” – performed by Gary Chapman

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

THE UNTOLD TRUTH ✨ JIM VARNEY (ERNEST)

Ever wondered about the man behind Ernest P. Worrell? This video uncovers the life and career of Jim Varney, revealing the story behind the iconic character, definitely a must-watch!

Ernest Goes to Camp – DisneyCember

Curious about how ‘Ernest Goes to Camp’ holds up? Nostalgia Critic takes a hilarious and insightful look at the movie, pointing out its strengths and weaknesses, you’ll definitely find it very entertaining!

Funny Ernest Moments #shorts

Need a quick laugh? This compilation of hilarious Ernest moments is the perfect dose of Jim Varney’s iconic comedy, its so short and sweet you will definitely love it!

✨ Rate