If you're a fan of the lighthearted, campy fun of 'Meatballs 4: To the Rescue' (1992), you're in for a treat! This article explores 10 similar movies and TV shows that capture the same mix of humor, summer camp antics, and feel-good vibes. Whether you're nostalgic for the '90s or just love a good underdog story, these picks will keep you entertained. Dive in to discover your next favorite watch!

Race for Your Life, Charlie Brown (1977)
Description: This animated film centers on the Peanuts gang at summer camp, much like the setting of 'Meatballs 4: To the Rescue'. Both highlight the adventures and rivalries that come with camp life, though Charlie Brown's story is more wholesome and less raucous.
Fact: The third Peanuts feature film. The river race was inspired by real camp competitions. It was the last Peanuts film to feature original voice actor Bill Melendez as Snoopy and Woodstock.


The Great Outdoors (1988)
Description: While not set at a camp, 'The Great Outdoors' shares with 'Meatballs 4: To the Rescue' the theme of outdoor summer adventures and family bonding. Both films use the wilderness setting for comedic and heartfelt moments, celebrating the chaos of summer vacations.
Fact: Written by John Hughes. Features Dan Aykroyd and John Candy in lead roles. The infamous 'Old 96er' steak-eating scene is a standout moment.


Troop Beverly Hills (1989)
Description: This film, like 'Meatballs 4: To the Rescue', focuses on a group of kids (in this case, a Girl Scout troop) navigating outdoor adventures and personal growth. Both films blend comedy with themes of teamwork and self-discovery in a summer activity setting.
Fact: Shelley Long stars as the unconventional troop leader. The film was inspired by real Beverly Hills Girl Scout troops. It became a cult favorite despite mixed reviews.


Addams Family Values (1993)
Description: This sequel includes a summer camp subplot where Wednesday and Pugsley are sent to camp, mirroring the camp setting of 'Meatballs 4: To the Rescue'. Both films blend humor with the quirky dynamics of kids in a camp environment, though 'Addams Family Values' has a darker, more satirical tone.
Fact: The camp scenes parody traditional summer camp movies. Christina Ricci's performance as Wednesday Addams is iconic. The film was a critical success but underperformed at the box office.


Indian Summer (1993)
Description: 'Indian Summer' is about adults revisiting their childhood summer camp, similar to how 'Meatballs 4: To the Rescue' focuses on the nostalgia and bonds formed at camp. Both films explore themes of friendship and nostalgia, though 'Indian Summer' is more dramatic and less comedic.
Fact: The film was shot at a real summer camp in Ontario. It features an ensemble cast including Alan Arkin and Diane Lane. The title refers to the late-summer period when former campers reunite.


Camp Nowhere (1994)
Description: Similar to 'Meatballs 4: To the Rescue', 'Camp Nowhere' revolves around the theme of summer camp adventures and the mischievous antics of kids trying to create their own ideal camp experience. Both films highlight the fun, chaos, and camaraderie of summer camp life, with a focus on youthful rebellion and creativity.
Fact: The film was originally titled 'Camp Nowhere: The Movie'. Christopher Lloyd, known for his role in 'Back to the Future', plays a key role in the film. The movie was shot in just 30 days.


Heavyweights (1995)
Description: 'Heavyweights' shares the summer camp setting with 'Meatballs 4: To the Rescue', but with a focus on a weight-loss camp. Both films feature a group of kids banding together against an antagonist (in this case, a fitness-obsessed camp director) and emphasize themes of friendship and overcoming challenges in a humorous way.
Fact: The film was produced by Judd Apatow, early in his career. Ben Stiller's performance as the villainous camp director is one of his most over-the-top roles. The movie was inspired by real-life weight-loss camps.


The Parent Trap (1998)
Description: While 'The Parent Trap' is more family-oriented, it shares with 'Meatballs 4: To the Rescue' the summer camp setting where kids form bonds and engage in playful schemes. Both films capture the spirit of childhood adventure and the magic of summer away from home.
Fact: Lindsay Lohan's debut film role. A remake of the 1961 film of the same name. The camp scenes were filmed at a real summer camp in Maine.


Wet Hot American Summer (2001)
Description: This cult classic, like 'Meatballs 4: To the Rescue', is set in a summer camp and parodies the tropes of camp movies. Both films embrace absurd humor and the nostalgic, chaotic energy of summer camp, though 'Wet Hot American Summer' leans more into satire and surreal comedy.
Fact: The film features an ensemble cast including Paul Rudd, Amy Poehler, and Bradley Cooper in early roles. It was a box office flop but gained a massive following on home video. A prequel series was released on Netflix in


Moonrise Kingdom (2012)
Description: Wes Anderson's film shares with 'Meatballs 4: To the Rescue' a whimsical take on childhood summer adventures, though 'Moonrise Kingdom' is more stylized and melancholic. Both films capture the innocence and rebellion of youth in a summer setting, with a focus on young love and escapades.
Fact: The film was shot in Rhode Island. Features a young Jared Gilman and Kara Hayward in their debut roles. The soundtrack prominently uses Benjamin Britten's classical music.
