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Ernest Goes To Camp - A Look Back

Ms. Pearline Olson

For many, the mention of a particular 1987 film brings a smile, you know, one that really captures the spirit of summer fun and, well, a bit of silliness. This movie, which happens to be "Ernest Goes to Camp," has a special spot in the hearts of those who grew up watching Jim Varney's unique brand of humor. It's a story that, in a way, shows how a simple handyman with big dreams can make a real difference, even when faced with some pretty tough challenges.

The film, "Ernest Goes to Camp," is a classic example of 80s comedy, offering a blend of slapstick humor and a surprisingly heartfelt message. It takes us to Kamp Kikakee, a place that, like, feels very much like those summer spots many remember from their younger days. Here, we get to see Ernest, a character many people recognize, try his hand at something a little different from his usual maintenance work, all while trying to keep the camp open against some rather formidable odds.

It's interesting to consider how this film, "Ernest Goes to Camp," has stayed with people over the years, becoming a sort of cultural touchstone for a generation. From its quirky characters to its memorable moments, it pretty much embodies a certain kind of lighthearted entertainment that was quite popular during its time. So, if you're looking for a trip down memory lane or just curious about what made this movie a hit, you're in the right spot.

Table of Contents

Who Was Jim Varney - The Man Behind Ernest?

When you think about the character Ernest P. Worrell, it's pretty hard not to picture Jim Varney, the actor who brought him to life. Varney, you know, was a person with a rather interesting path to becoming a well-known figure in comedy. He was born in Lexington, Kentucky, a place that, in some respects, shaped his early experiences. From a young age, he showed a real spark for performance, which, you know, isn't always something you see so clearly in kids.

As a teenager, Jim Varney's interest in the theater grew quite a bit. He actually got involved in drama competitions while attending Lafayette High School, which is located in Lexington, Kentucky. It's kind of cool to think about him winning state titles for his acting, showing that he had a knack for it even back then. This early success, you could say, pretty much set the stage for his future career, allowing him to explore different ways of entertaining people.

Varney's ability to create a character like Ernest, a lovable but often clumsy individual, really resonated with audiences. He had a way of making people laugh with his physical comedy and distinctive voice. Even after his passing in 2000, his work as Ernest has continued to be remembered and enjoyed by many. It's clear that, at the end of the day, he was a decent human being who left a lasting impression through his performances.

Jim Varney - Personal Details and Bio Data

Here's a quick look at some personal details about Jim Varney, the person who made Ernest so memorable:

  • Full Name: James Albert Varney, Sr.
  • Born: June 15, 1949
  • Birthplace: Lexington, Kentucky, USA
  • Parents: Nancy Louise (Howard) and James Albert Varney, Sr.
  • Passed Away: February 10, 2000
  • Notable Role: Ernest P. Worrell
  • Early Interests: Theater, drama competitions

What Is Ernest Goes to Camp All About?

"Ernest Goes to Camp" tells the story of Ernest P. Worrell, a character who, you know, is pretty much known for being a bit of a lovable underdog. In this particular film, Ernest works as a handyman at a summer camp, a place that, in a way, seems like a typical spot for kids to spend their warmer months. But, beneath his simple job, Ernest has a bigger dream: he really wants to become a guidance counselor, someone who helps young people figure things out.

The plot takes a turn when Ernest is given the task of looking after a group of young people who, honestly, are a bit challenging. These kids are described as juvenile delinquents, and it's up to Ernest to find a way to inspire them, to help them see things differently. This is where a lot of the film's heart comes from, as we see Ernest trying his best to connect with these young individuals, even when things get a little chaotic.

As if dealing with a group of spirited youngsters wasn't enough, there's another big problem brewing at the camp. A rather questionable strip mining company, you see, has plans that could lead to the camp closing its doors for good. So, Ernest, who is basically just a handyman with a good heart, must also figure out how to stop this company. It's a pretty big task for someone who just wants to be a counselor, but he's determined to save the place and the kids.

How Did Ernest Goes to Camp Come to Life?

The creation of "Ernest Goes to Camp" is, in some respects, an interesting part of the character's history. This film, which came out in 1987, was directed by John R. Cherry III, a person who, you know, had a hand in many of the Ernest adventures. It's important to remember that this wasn't the first time Ernest P. Worrell appeared on screen; it was actually the second film to feature him, building on the popularity he had already gained from other appearances.

The movie was shot in Nashville, Tennessee, and some of its surrounding areas, which, you know, gave it a specific kind of setting. This location helped create the look and feel of Kamp Kikakee, making it feel like a real place where summer activities could unfold. The choice of setting, you could say, really added to the film's overall atmosphere, giving it that classic summer camp vibe that many people enjoy.

A rather poignant detail about "Ernest Goes to Camp" is that it marked the final screen appearance for Iron Eyes Cody, a well-known actor. His presence in the film adds a bit of historical weight to the production, making it a significant moment in his career. So, while the movie is largely a comedy, it also holds this special place in the history of cinema for that reason.

What Made Ernest Goes to Camp a Standout 80s Film?

"Ernest Goes to Camp" really captured a certain kind of energy that was common in 80s summer camp movies. It's pretty much a standard example of that type of adventure, where a group of young people, often seen as outsiders, come together and experience something special. In this case, the film focuses on a particular group of kids known as the "Second Chancers," who attend Kamp Kikakee.

The film's appeal also comes from Ernest's wacky antics, which, you know, are a big part of his character. His good intentions, though sometimes leading to chaos, often clash with the unpredictable nature of summer camp life. This blend of humor and a bit of heart is what made people laugh and connect with the story. It's a movie that, in a way, doesn't take itself too seriously, which is something many people appreciate.

Many viewers discover all sorts of interesting things about "Ernest Goes to Camp" when they look back at it. It's a movie that, at the end of the day, delivers on its promise of lighthearted fun and adventure. The film's long-lasting appeal, it's worth noting, has nothing to do with Jim Varney's passing; his character and the movie itself just seem to have a way of sticking around in people's memories, which is pretty cool.

The People Who Brought Ernest Goes to Camp to the Screen

The film "Ernest Goes to Camp" features a cast of individuals who helped bring the story and characters to life. Of course, the most recognizable person is Jim Varney, who, you know, plays Ernest. His performance is pretty central to the whole experience, making the character someone many people remember. But he wasn't alone in creating this summer camp adventure.

Other notable individuals in the film include Victoria Racimo, John Vernon, and Iron Eyes Cody. These actors, in a way, contributed to the overall feel of the movie, adding different personalities to the mix. Lyle Alzado also had a role, bringing his own kind of presence to the screen. The combination of these performers, you could say, helped build the world of Kamp Kikakee and the challenges Ernest faces.

John R. Cherry III, as mentioned, directed the film. His vision helped shape the comedic timing and the storytelling. It's pretty clear that the entire group worked together to create a movie that, in some respects, has a very distinct style. The efforts of the cast and the person guiding the production really made "Ernest Goes to Camp" what it is, a film that many people still talk about.

How Did Ernest Goes to Camp Perform at the Box Office?

When "Ernest Goes to Camp" first came out, it did pretty well at the box office, showing that people were interested in seeing Ernest's latest adventure. In its opening weekend, the film brought in about $6.2 million from 1,541 theaters. That's a pretty good start for a movie like this, you know, showing a decent level of audience enthusiasm right from the beginning.

By its second week, the film continued to add to its earnings, making around $3.6 million. This steady performance, you could say, helped it reach a significant total. Overall, "Ernest Goes to Camp" ended up grossing a total of $23.5 million. This figure really shows that the movie connected with a sizable audience, making it a commercial success for its time.

It's also interesting to see how "Ernest Goes to Camp" stacks up against other films featuring the character. It actually holds the spot as the third highest-grossing Ernest film. The movies that earned more were "Ernest Saves Christmas," which brought in about $28.2 million, and "Ernest Goes to Jail," which collected around $25 million. So, in a way, "Ernest Goes to Camp" was a strong performer within the Ernest series, showing the character's continued popularity.

Where Can You Experience Ernest Goes to Camp Today?

Even though "Ernest Goes to Camp" came out a while ago, you can still find ways to watch it and enjoy the laughs today. If you're looking to stream it, there are often options available online through various services. Websites like Moviefone, for example, can help you discover where the movie is currently streaming, or if it's available for rent or purchase. It's pretty convenient, you know, to be able to watch it at home and just immerse yourself in the story.

For those who like to know what critics and other viewers think, you can also check out places like Rotten Tomatoes. This site provides reviews and ratings for "Ernest Goes to Camp," giving you a sense of how the film was received by both professional critics and general audiences. Staying updated with these scores can be pretty interesting, especially if you like to compare opinions.

If you're curious about showtimes, or want to explore more about the cast and other details, Moviefone is another good resource. It's a helpful place to learn more about "Ernest Goes to Camp," beyond just watching the movie. So, whether you're looking to stream it, rent it, or just find out more about its background, there are plenty of ways to connect with this classic 80s comedy today.

This article has explored "Ernest Goes to Camp," covering the beloved character Ernest P. Worrell, the actor Jim Varney who brought him to life, and the film's plot involving a summer camp handyman's dream to become a guidance counselor while facing a shady mining company. We've looked at the movie's origins, its place as a classic 80s summer camp adventure, the people involved in its making, its box office performance, and how you can still watch it today.

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  • Name : Ms. Pearline Olson
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