The life changing adventure for eleven and twelve years old's Grace and Howie. Who rock big square glasses and low self esteem. When they become "goats' a tradition at this summer camp where they are staying that has a tradition where a boy and girl are outcasted onto an island in the middle of the lake stripped and left alone all night long. While Grace weeps in a corner clutching around a blanket, Howie decides that they should swim to shore. Where they will then run away together.
This leads the dynamic duo to breaking into an abandon cabin, stealing clothes from teenagers and spending the night in a hotel where they pretend to be Mr. and Mrs. Kendrick's. As you can imagine Grace's mother is absolutely frantic, leaving her corporate job in order to search for her. Its a wonder how she didn't go raving mad while the camp leader blamed her for her Daughter's lack of confidence that made her an easy target. Thankfully after this escapade Grace and Howie end up alright and become pen pals.
So when I saw the trailer for this movie I was expecting something a bit less relatable. And my favorite aspect about this entire film was how realistic it was in showing dangers that kids are told to avoid. Like getting into someone's care even if they claim to be a police officer and how they promise to pay everyone back who they stole from (and they do). Which is something I rarely see exhibited in these films. Plus the two main actors were exquisite and I feel in love with there characters. Who were shown as two people who were lonely and seeking friendship, you didn't really view them as possible love interests. That sends an amazing message out to me. Another aspect that was included was in one scene Grace was being felt up by another boy, Howie put him in his place then later befriended him. Of course after he apologized to Grace for his behavior. Plus I love how the only indicator that this film took place in the eighties was because of the music.
The only message that was a bit odd was that for more then half of the movie the kids don't know each other's names. they are already bonded so closely with out the exchange of names, sort of making them meaning less since the majority of all the characters are also unnamed, at least the important ones. a rather interesting detail that I can't quite make out yet.
This movie is available on Netflix and is a great watch with your kids or by yourself. Its relatable to all ages! And appropriate. With its witty humor and poetic script.
