Here is a comedy feature film that stages its climax around one of the shortest marathon competitions, a four mile "marathon". Amazingly, after running on gravel roads and falling down in the back-country the two competitors come down to the wire in slow motion detail to end their camp competition footrace. Characters are developed and connections made through the use of morning runs of a mile or two between the lead star, Bill Murray as "Tripper Harrison", and one of the youth, "Rudy" (played by Chris Makepeace). Running seems to be the one great link they have that can bring the whole camp together in the end, even as the antics seem somewhat outdated. If you are a coach looking for a motivational speech then pay particular attention to Murray's "It just doesn't matter" escapade. If you want to see numerous quotes from this film then skip to the end of this review. This film is considered a classic by many and can be ordered from Amazon.com in either VHS or in DVD format (pick up a used copy if they are sold out of new stock). Pass on the three sequels to this film, as they did not maintain the running subplot of this original film.
