Standing Up

Late one evening at a summer camp, a young boy is unwittingly humiliated by his peers, who strip him naked and leave him on an isolated island in a lake. To his astonishment, he soon encounters a girl his age from a nearby camp, who has fallen victim to the same cruel prank. Though their names are not revealed for some time, the pair shares their mutual disdain for the ridicule they endure from the other camp attendees. Determined to escape their torment, they decide against returning to camp and instead embark on an adventurous journey of their own.

They begin by swimming away from the island, eventually discovering another cabin where they find some ill-fitting clothes. Although their initial nudity is mentioned, it’s handled with subtlety and grace. Meanwhile, camp officials realize that the pair has strayed from the camp, choosing to evade the humiliation experienced by previous “goats” who faced similar hazing.

As they continue their flight, Howie and Grace (the names they eventually reveal) encounter a more welcoming camp where they are embraced by fellow children their age. These new friends do not expose them as runaways, allowing the duo to find solace in an unexpected sense of camaraderie that fosters open dialogue about personal struggles. However, tensions arise when an older boy develops an inappropriate interest in Grace, culminating in a confrontation that ultimately bolsters the confidence of the fledgling couple.

Seeking shelter for the night, Howie and Grace find a modest motel where they share their names for the first time amidst a backdrop of awkward yet tender moments. The following day, Grace calls her mother, wishing for Howie to join them, unaware of the complexities surrounding his life as a foster child, which later leaves her torn about their future together.

Amidst encounters that test their resilience, including a run-in with a rogue county deputy, the reality of their situation becomes apparent: they cannot survive alone in the wilderness. In a heartfelt decision, they reveal their whereabouts to Grace’s mother, who comes to their rescue.

The main narrative concludes with a poignant note as we fast forward to the fall, when Grace receives heartfelt photographs from Howie that he captured during their time on the run. In a voiceover, Grace reflects on how Howie has found adoptive parents and expresses her gratitude for the special bond they formed. In the final scene, she reads through a notebook penned by Howie, documenting his feelings—each entry revealing just how much he cherished their brief yet impactful time together.

Last Updated: October 25, 2024 at 09:00