Netflix is expanding its hit slate of family-centered comedies, as Adam Sandler’s Happy Madison and Shawn Levy’s 21 Laps are teaming up to adapt Evan S. Porter’s debut novel Dad Camp into a feature film. The news comes amid the monster success of Happy Gilmore 2, which recently became Netflix’s biggest U.S. opening weekend ever.
Dad Camp: The Story
Published by Dutton in June 2024, Dad Camp follows John, a devoted father struggling to maintain a close bond with his daughter Avery as she enters her preteen years. Hoping to reconnect before she starts middle school, John signs them up for a week-long father-daughter retreat at a rundown summer camp. The retreat forces him to face his fears of losing her while navigating the evolving dynamics of parenthood.
Creative Team Behind the Adaptation
The screenplay will be written by Kevin Jakubowski, whose credits include HBO Max’s 8-Bit Christmas and the Sundance selection Assassination of a High School President. Jakubowski also created Nickelodeon’s Legendary Dudas and Play by Play for Roku Channel.
Shawn Levy and Dan Levine will produce on behalf of 21 Laps, with Emily Feher and Max Gains overseeing the project. For Happy Madison, Sandler continues his exclusive Netflix collaboration, which has consistently delivered top-performing films since their first deal in 2014.
Industry Context
The project highlights Netflix’s strategy of pairing star-driven productions with heartfelt, family-oriented storytelling. Levy’s production company is simultaneously preparing the fifth and final season of Stranger Things, while also developing adaptations such as Never Lie and The Blanks.
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Meanwhile, Sandler remains one of Netflix’s biggest draws. His latest hit, Happy Gilmore 2, amassed 46.7 million views in its first three days and has already surpassed 109 million views, putting it on track to enter Netflix’s Top 10 Most Popular Movies list.
What’s Next for Sandler & Levy
Sandler will next star opposite George Clooney in Noah Baumbach’s upcoming drama Jay Kelly, while also embarking on his “You’re My Best Friend” tour across 37 arenas. Levy, on the other hand, is preparing to direct Star Wars: Starfighter — starring Ryan Gosling, Mia Goth, and Matt Smith — scheduled for a 2027 theatrical release.
Conclusion
With the combined power of Adam Sandler’s comedic touch and Shawn Levy’s production expertise, Dad Camp is shaping up to be a heartfelt and engaging family film that could resonate with Netflix’s global audience, much like Happy Gilmore 2 has.
