Common Sense Media Review
By Tara McNamara
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Wattpad-inspired romcom promotes self-acceptance; drinking.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 14+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Boot Camp
What's the Story?
In BOOT CAMP, Whitney Carmichael (Rachel Boudwin) is smart, fun, and everyone's friend—but no one's girlfriend. When rival Willow (Rachel Boyd) taunts Whitney by saying that she's not the girl who gets the guy, Whitney decides that it's time to get into fighting shape, so she signs up for a fitness-intensive summer camp. But, unfortunately, so does Willow.
Is It Any Good?
Leave it to Gen Z to show Hollywood exactly what they want: This romance based on a self-published Wattpad story is proof that romcoms can be female empowering and fulfilling at the same time. Romcoms are usually female fantasies, and Boot Camp is even more so than average. Most romcom heroines, as "awkward" or "adorkable," as they might be, are still typically awfully aspirational. But Boudwin is an everygirl while also a standout—her natural but engaging delivery feels like a cozy blanket, and hopefully, we'll see more of her.
The movie's low budget is apparent, and whether this is due to directorial choices or budget, it feels like some shots were miscalculated and some of the editing could be tighter. But, as a casual streaming watch, Boot Camp does the trick. It's a frothy romcom that still leaves you satisfied.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about Boot Camp's theme of self-acceptance. How is this attitude embraced by the different characters?
Boot Camp was adapted from a romance written for the user-generated content platform Wattpad. Does that "outside the industry" storytelling make it more relatable or more engaging? What other creative platforms could inspire a movie or TV show?
Whitney finds her footing in situations that would otherwise make her nervous by imagining that she's the self-confident character from her favorite book. In what circumstances would this technique work? How does Whitney ensure that she doesn't become too reliant on that tactic?
Is drinking glamorized here? Why, or why not? Are there realistic consequences?
What is the "male gaze" in movies and other media? Is the "female gaze" used in Boot Camp? What's the difference?
Movie Details
- In theaters : August 2, 2024
- On DVD or streaming : August 2, 2024
- Cast : Rachel Boudwin , Drew Ray Tanner , Emmanuelle Chriqui
- Director : Mackenzie Munro
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Director(s) , Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Vertical Entertainment
- Genre : Romance
- Run time : 94 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : January 6, 2025
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