🚩 Must-See Camp Adventures: 'Summer Sparks,' 'A Week Away: The Series,' & New Premiere: 'Bad Counselors'

 ( *click here to enlarge image* ) 

Today, I'm excited to share a couple of reviews that perfectly capture the spirit of summer!

First up is a camp-themed, family-friendly movie, followed by a faith-based camp series that's especially wonderful for teens. Both feature familiar faces you'll recognize from the Hallmark Channel and Great American Family. And be sure to stick around until the end of this post for a first look at an all-new camp movie premiere!

Before we dive into the reviews, I first have to say... there's just something special about camp stories, isn't there, whether it's roasting marshmallows around a crackling campfire, singing along with new friends, or growing deeper in your faith.

If you love those special moments as much as I do, grab your favorite trail mix, settle into your comfiest camp chair, and let's head to camp together! Happy reading, friends!

✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨

Summer Sparks – (currently streaming free through the Roku channel) 

This is a very sweet, lighthearted camp movie – ideal for families! Adam (Jesse Metcalfe) and Monica (Kathryn Davis) are single parents who are slow, at first, at opening themselves up to the idea of love again, but as they spend more and more time together, there’s a subtle attraction between the two.

Both of their families decide to attend Camp Evergreen to reconnect over a cooking competition.

The kids are nice and get along well together, which is great to see. Monica's teenage daughter, Hannah, develops a sweet crush on fellow camper Sam, who also happens to be competing in the cook-off with his family. Sam also just happens to be the son of Monica’s childhood camp nemesis (of course, right?), who’s determined to win the competition at any cost.

A few mild cautions for kids: While this movie is really wholesome and G-rated, I just wanted to mention a few things… a teenage girl uses "Oh my G--" once or twice, Jesse Metcalfe and his son are still grieving the loss of their wife/mother while attempting to bond through this camp experience, and there’s someone at the camp who is a bully, at first, but eventually this person has a change of heart and chooses kindness.

Towards the end of the movie, the kids scheme to give Adam and Monica some alone time together – to which Adam says something to the effect of – “Did our kids try to ‘Parent Trap’ us?” It’s a really cute nod to that classic Disney camp movie!

Overall, this movie is a pleasant watch highlighting family, friendships, forgiveness, and a fresh Summer feel! ~Net


Summer Sparks | Official Trailer | The Roku Channel

✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨

A Week Away: The Series - Streaming through Angel Studios

And speaking of camp, I just recently re-watched the camp series, A Week Away, that first came out last Fall through Angel Studios, and I was once again amazed at the deep, profound spiritual message in this series. It’s basically a mix of Grease, High School Musical, and Camp Rock meets Church Camp!

The main focus of the story is a foster teen named Max who arrives at camp very resistant to any message about God’s love. Max has carried years of pain, disappointment, and unanswered questions. He's joined by several other foster teens who wrestle with similar wounds, asking the same question many believers have faced: Where was God when I needed Him most?

It’s incredible to watch as the walls they’ve built gradually begin to fall. Each of them has to make an individual choice on whether to follow God. It takes some time, but as hearts begin to soften, bitterness gives way to forgiveness and healing.

The musical sequences are impressively staged. The choreography ranges from upbeat and energetic to emotionally intimate performances that actually deepen the story.

And while there are catchy and silly songs of Christian-themed pop and rock, there’s also an incredibly moving cover of Lauren Daigle’s “You Say,” which I have to say was done so beautifully as a duet with two of the show's leads. It’s my favorite song of the whole series, although many others are quite memorable, as well.

Carlos PenaVega (Mr. Manhattan, Get Him Back for Christmas) is wonderfully cast as Jeremy, the camp pastor, bringing relatability, humor, and steady spiritual guidance to the campers. His scenes with Max, the troubled teen, are truly inspiring and unforgettable. Alexa PenaVega (Before Your Father Finds Us, Get Him Back for Christmas) is also seen in a short cameo appearance.

And many will likely recognize Leigh-Allyn Baker from the Disney show Good Luck, Charlie.

While there's plenty of laughter, camp competitions, friendships, and even a few humorous pranks at the camp, the part I loved most was that the story continually points back to God's unconditional love. It's a great reminder that our identity isn't defined by rejection, abandonment, or past mistakes, but by God who calls us His own.

Cautions: The series includes discussions of childhood abandonment and foster care, bullying among teens, honest conversations about questioning faith, innocent teen crushes, two teenagers sharing a kiss, and a variety of harmless camp pranks. While some of the themes are emotionally weighty at times, they ultimately lead toward healing and redemption.

Overall, A Week Away: The Series is much more than a fun summer musical... it's an uplifting, inspiring story filled with memorable songs, dance performances, and a powerful message of discovering faith. It's an excellent choice for families and church youth groups - preteen age and up.

A Week Away: The Series is one of those series that stays with you long after the credits roll, just like our own camp or summer memories.

This series, with 7 episodes nearly 30 minutes each, was created for Angel Studios by Alan Powell (Christmas in the Smokies, Get Him Back for Christmas). It is a spin-off based on the Netflix film A Week Away.

A Week Away: The Series initially premiered August 28, 2025 through Angel’s streaming platform. And more great news, if you haven't heard... Season 2 is currently in the pre-production phase!

The movie soundtrack for A Week Away: The Series is available on Amazon.

You can also stream the first two episodes of season 1 free through the A Week Away Series YouTube page or the Angel website.


A Week Away: The Series | Official Trailer | Angel

✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨

Bad Counselors - Currently in Theaters

Speaking of camp and Angel Studios, the streaming platform also released its approval for the new camp-themed movie, Bad Counselors, which will run in theaters for a limited time - July 22nd through July 27th.

This is Angel's statement on 'Bad Counselors':

"Angel is proud to support this hilarious fish-out-of-water story about two carefree fraternity brothers who find themselves just two weeks away from expulsion.

With 120 hours of community service standing between them and staying in school, they hatch an unlikely plan: pose as Christian camp counselors. The only problem? They wouldn't know a hymn from a hot dog.

What follows is a heartfelt comedy full of unexpected friendships, hilarious mishaps, and surprising lessons that prove sometimes the people least prepared for the job are the ones who need it most."

Note: This movie is rated PG-13

Also, look for Dominic Lopez (Chasing Christmas, Once Upon a Christmas Wish) in the supporting cast as one of the campers. You can also see him at the end of the trailer below.

Bad Counselors | OFFICIAL TRAILER:

✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨

If you've seen any of these camp-themed movies and want to share a thought or review, please do so in comments.

Or... if you have another camp movie you love, please share those in comments, too.

I've yet to see the original A Week Away movie from Netflix, so if any of you have seen it, I'd love to know your take on it.

My classic camp movie suggestions are:
The Parent Trap (love both versions!),
Camp Nowhere (super funny, but beware of minor language like Home Alone),
Troop Beverly Hills (such a sweet movie... see Kelli Martin as a young girl in that movie and Shelley Long portrays the troop leader), and
Camp Cucamonga (look for Candace Cameron Bure, Danica McKellar, and lots more recognizable stars in this 90s camp classic)!

Plus, I've always liked the Hallmark camp-themed movie, Kiss at Pine Lake, starring Barry Watson, Mia Kirshner, Brennan Elliott, and Matty Finochio!

Hope you enjoy these camp shows as much as your favorite outdoor adventure!

Blessings,

Net

images via: Roku Channel, Studio TF1 America, Angel Sudios, Loam Entertainment, Zero Gravity Management, and Narrow Gate Entertainment


Camp Movies - DVD and Streaming:
(Click on posters for details)

Ideas for the First Day or any Day of Summer!

Ready or Not, Here it Comes!!!
Summer is here (as of Friday, June 21st) and it's a wonderful time to soak up every precious moment!

Here are some fun Summer Ideas:

*Have a Picnic (Pack something simple and be sure not to invite the ants or bees!)

*Bike Ride (wear helmets / safety gear and choose a safe location, it's also great fun and exercise!)

*Camping (be sure to bring proper equipment and snacks!)

*Enjoy Outdoor Activities as a Family (such as: Corn Hole, Horse Shoes, Golf, Volleyball, Basketball, Baseball, Tennis, Swimming, etc...)

*Gather around a Fire-pit or Bon-fire (be sure to keep children a safe distance from fire, sparks, and matches, bring a songbook or simply have sharing or story time)

*Plant a Garden or some flowers in your yard

*Have Family Movie Night (of course, I had to include this! Maybe choose a Camp or Summer-themed Film to get you in the spirit!)

*Take a Simple Drive around your hometown (point out and visit special places!)

*Plan a Road Trip

*Get tickets to The Symphony or an Outdoor Concert

*Visit a Museum

*Visit your Local Fair / Festival / Amusement Park

*Go to the Beach

*Go Sailing (be sure to wear a Life-Jacket)

*Visit the Zoo

*Plan a Scavenger Hunt

*Visit the Road not Taken

*Go Hiking / Walk Trails (choose safe locations, go in groups, and bring water!)

*Plan a Slumber Party for Girls or a Campout for Boys!

*Check out your local Farmers Market (fresh food is always the best food!)

*Shop at an Outdoor Mall

*Check out local Garage Sales and Flea Markets (anothers mans trash is another mans treasure!)

*Relax at the end of the day with a good book

*Have Devotional or Scripture Reading Time

*Start a Puzzle, Chess Game, Board Game, or other Activity for Rainy Days

*Bake or Make something special for family members

*Visit Family or Friends you haven't seen in a while

*Have a BBQ with the neighbors

*Make Popcicles, Lemonade, or your own Ice Cream

*And, after you do all that, you'll need to... Plan a Vacation!


Please be careful and safe in whatever activities and plans you make for your Summer Vacation. These are just some ideas. Please use your own judgement in choosing what suits you best, or your family.

If you like any of these ideas, have any other ideas, or would like to share something special that you do - please share in comments below!

Have a Wonderful Summer, Everyone!

(*Images via: Magnamail Blogspot- Picnic Tips, UVM Career Services Blog, Red Bee Media, 3wordsfor365, She Knows Celebrations)

See "God's Country" on UP, the Uplifting Network

MOVIE REVIEW

God's Country

Network: UP

(previously known as: GMC)

Original Air Date: August 4, 2013

This Movie is Available on DVD.

CAST:

Jenn Gotzon ... Meghan Doherty
Gib Gerard ... Jake Graham
Michael Toland ... Eden Graham
Daniel Hugh Kelly ... Mr. Whitaker
Todd Duffey ... Adam
Suzanne Ford ... Emma Doherty
Gonzalo Menendez ... Pastor Tinsley
Kelvin Brown ... Lenny
Stephanie Barnes ... Geri
Laura Gardner ... Carolyn Graham
Arlene Santana ... Valentina
Emil Beheshti ... Bill Charles
Diana Hart ... Nora Charles
Pierre Kennel ... Flower Delivery Guy

PLOT:

Via http://www.godscountrymovie.com:

Meghan Doherty is a young, talented executive who neglects her mother and close friends to focus on one goal MAKING MONEY. After closing a multi-million dollar deal Meghan is asked by Mr. Randolph Whitaker (her boss/CEO) to close a deal of a lifetime. She's taking her talent to the Mojave Desert in hopes of getting a Christian land owner to turn over his land before auction. With a $100 million dollar potential deal looming, there is nothing that will stand in the way of her getting what she needs to further her career. Not even GOD?

The foreclosed land in question, called God's Country, is owned by Eden Graham, a minister who runs a youth camp there, along with his wife and son, Jake. Upon arrival at the camp in her Ferrari and designer clothes, Meghan is clearly not a good fit, but Eden persuades her to stay; he promises to sign over the property to her if, during her weeklong sojourn there at the camp, she is not convinced of the value of what they are doing.

Movie Review:

Coming...


See or Skip:

Coming...


*Images via:
http://www.godscountrymovie.com
Slingshot Pictures


*God's Country is Available on DVD.


--

Kiss at Pine Lake - Hallmark Channel Movie

MOVIE REVIEW

Kiss at Pine Lake

Network: Hallmark Channel

Original Air Date: May 19, 2012

CAST:

Barry Watson ... Luke Garvey
Mia Kirshner ... Zoe McDowell
Bill Engvall ... Mr. McDowell (Zoe's Dad)
Brennan Elliott ... Pete Sherman
Matty Finochio ... Tommy
Billy Mitchell ... Suit
Cole Heppell ... Wayne
Victoria Bidewell ... Erica Taft
Adam DiMarco ... Young Tommy
Sarah Desjardins ... Young Zoe
Amanda Kierszenblat ... Young Erika

PLOT:

Luke Garvey, a philanthropic entrepreneur, buys his uncle's Camp Pine Lake for sentimental reasons - to preserve his childhood memories - only to find himself as the new owner of a sinking business. He is disheartened when he realizes the camp may get shut down for safety code violations. Zoe McConnell, Luke's girlfriend from camp years ago, is the point person in her development firm assigned to convince Luke to sell his new land. When the two meet, they rekindle an old flame, and Zoe agrees to help Luke any way she can to save their favorite, childhood retreat. They must also learn to reconcile their past with their future.


More PLOT DETAILS from Hallmark
(May Contain Some Movie Spoilers):

On the last day of camp, fifteen year old Luke Garvey and Zoe McDowell are about to share their first kiss, when they are interrupted by Zoe's dad (Engvall). Now, fifteen years later, destiny is about to come calling. Luke (Watson) is now a philanthropic entrepreneur, who recently purchased his uncle's Camp Pine Lake for sentimental reasons, only to find out the camp may get shut down for safety code violations; and Zoe (Kirshner) is the point person in her upscale development firm assigned to convince the new camp owner, who prefers to remain anonymous, to sell his land. As she prepares to head back to camp, Zoe confesses to her best friend Erica (Bidewell) she is sad to hear Camp Pine Lake is rundown and she thinks often of Luke, her teenage crush.

When Zoe arrives, she is stunned to learn that Luke is the new owner. This changes everything for Zoe when she realizes Luke isn't interested in making a profit, he wants it to stay open. But feeling cornered by her boss, Zoe agrees to use her friendship with Luke to their advantage. As the two get reacquainted, Zoe feigns support and Luke misunderstands, thinking she is there as an investor. But as the conversation drifts to their teenage years, Zoe gets upset with Luke, as too many memories come back and she runs away, dropping her cell phone. With time running out and only two weeks to bring the camp up to code, Tommy (Finochio), Luke's right-hand man and accountant suggests selling to a developer, who Luke immediately recognizes as the logo on Zoe's cell phone. Luke is disgusted with Tommy for going behind his back and he feels betrayed by Zoe. Zoe apologizes for not being truthful about the development deal and asks for a second chance and for their "first" kiss. As they rekindle an old flame, Zoe agrees to help Luke save their childhood retreat.

Movie Review:

Get out you Sunscreen and Calomine Lotion... It’s a trip back to Summer Camp... a trip that takes Luke and Zoe back to the place where they were young and first fell in love with each other.

The movie begins with a young Luke and Zoe, together at Pine Lake with their friends. It’s the end of Summer... and they are saying goodbye, yet promising to call or write.

But time slips by and 15 years later they are now adults, but Luke isn’t altogether “Grown up”. He still acts like a big kid, even though he is the anonymous president of a company, Zeppo Enterprises, he has created with his “nerdy-type” best friend. In the midst of all of this, Luke’s Uncle Charlie has sold him the camp at Pine Lake, which is sadly, breaking down and on the verge of being shut down. It’s up to Luke to do what he can to save it, even though, he can’t afford it – do to giving so much of his money, to other charities and causes.

Zoe, too, has grown up and moved on with her life. She is hoping to earn an executive position at Sherman Leonard, which is exactly what she wants – because it will mean financial success and security, if she can get a certain piece of property to be sold. And, that property is Pine Lake and of course, her old crush, Luke, is now the owner- who is determined to keep the camp going. It’s a blast to see Luke try to fix repairs at the camp, by himself, since he cannot afford to hire help. He even falls off the roof!

The questions become – will Zoe be sentimental about the past and give up on Luke selling out or will Luke give into financial pressures when Zoe says they can’t re-live the past.

It’s a satisfying and sweet story of love lost and found again. I loved the way they weaved the stories of the past with the future... and the younger actors who portrayed the characters today – were fantastic – great matches!

Barry Watson was extra fun and so naturally relaxed, comedic, and real, as his character, Luke. I couldn't help from laughing, even when he fell off the roof! (A funny side note: his wife used to be on Extreme Makeover Home Edition - so it was pretty funny that he wasn't exactly Mr. Fix-It!)

It’s a very sweet Romantic Comedy... a happy story that is family-friendly and fun! Plus, it includes fireworks on the fourth of July, and of course, a “Kiss at Pine Lake”!


See or Skip:

See... very sweet and fun!


---------------------