5. Ernest Goes to Camp
I know what you are thinking and I agree. This must be the only time an "Ernest" movie was on a top 10 list other than Top 10 Most Annoying Characters. What sets this movie apart is that the movie was not as much about Ernest as it was a movie about camp that included his character as the goofy staff member. In his other movies, the action was centered around him and his misadventures. Here, he is a counselor who guides a group of campers and makes them realize that their behavior is unacceptable. The essential idea of this movie that rings most true is the fact that we often abuse the ones that care for us most. This is true with family outside of camp, but in the microcosm that is summer camp it is much more evident. The campers act out against Ernest, only to realize he has been the only one standing up for them. I had similar experience on both sides during my camp and counsellor experience. Furthermore, people who would not be friends in "the real world" often form stronger than average bonds at summer camp. Both Ernest and his campers experience this first hand. Perhaps the most accurate thing about camp that this movie addresses is the fact that camp food is gross. So gross, even Ernest P. Worrell can't keep it down. That said, this is hopefully the last time I have to make an honest and heartfelt argument about a movie starring Jim Varney, may he rest in peace.