Skip the Sunburn, Watch a Movie
Craving films that feel like cicada songs, sunshine, and nostalgia? Get started on the popcorn. I’ll save you time scrolling Netflix with my watchlist this year…
Does this stock photo make you feel like munching?
Beasts of the Southern Wild
2012 • PG-13 • 93 min
A lyrical and haunting journey through the Louisiana bayou, this indie gem is as raw and untamed. As an indie, it’s not officially rated but be prepared for around PG-13. Through the eyes of six-year-old Hushpuppy, the film captures both the magic and peril of a childhood shaped by wild surroundings. After premiering at Sundance and winning their Grand Jury Prize (Dramatic), the film won many accolades including the Caméra d'Or award at Cannes and was nominated for four Oscars.
Roman Holiday
1953 • G • 99 min
Escape to Rome for a summer adventure on the back of a vespa! I cannot believe this year is my first time watching this classic. Peck and Hepburn’s chemistry is a masterclass romantic comedy; plus the old-world charm of Italy make this film like a dripping gelato: refreshing and demands your attention.
The Parent Trap
1998 • PG • 128 min
Sorry not sorry, I love the Lindsey Lohan version. This Nancy Meyer’s summer camp switch-eroo is peak summer nostalgia. Fencing duels to secret handshakes, this excellent remake captures the thrill of young mischief and the dream of reuniting family. For a double feature, pop in Freaky Friday.
Raiders of the Lost Ark
1981 • PG • 115 min
Calls for hanging a bed sheet and setting up projector on the lawn. This adventure is good in any season, but hits differently in the heat. Sand, snakes, and endless action: Indy’s first outing is a thrilling escape that turns any living room into a treasure hunt.
In the Heights
2021 • PG-13 • 143 min
Set in sun-soaked Washington Heights, Lin-Manuel Miranda’s musical is a love letter to family, culture, and pursuing your dreams… with a healthy dose of dancing in the streets to beat the heat.
Mamma Mia!
2008 • PG-13 • 108 min
Greece? ABBA? Dancing in denim overalls? Watching this movie is almost as fun as it was to make it. Jump scare warning about Pierce Brosnan’s solo & be sure to keep your tissues close for Streep and Seyfried’s duet.
Crazy Rich Asians
2018 • PG-13 • 120 min
Glitz, glamour, and tropical getaways make this modern rom-com a luxurious summer escape. In the Singapore of the ultra-wealthy, a classic tale of love, tradition, and identity successfully blends old and new.
Jaws
1975* • PG • 124 min
Creature horror and monster movies will always scream summer to me and no summer list is complete without Spielberg’s blockbuster. The original summer thriller, Jaws is equal parts sun-soaked Americana and edge-of-your-seat suspense. Bonus points if you’re brave enough to watch it before a beach trip. 👀
* please note, Jaws is celebrating 50 years, so you gotta watch it!
The Mummy
1999 • PG-13 • 124 min
Speaking of creature horror! For campy, swashbuckling fun with ancient curses and desert heat look no further than The Mummy. Set in 1920s Egypt, Brendan Fraser and Rachel Weisz blend action, humor, and romance for an endlessly rewatchable adventure.
The Silence of the Lambs
1991 • R • 118 min
Cool down with this classic, chilling psychological thriller. FBI trainee Clarice Starling (Jodie Foster) must consult the brilliant but terrifying cannibalistic serial killer, Dr. Hannibal Lecter (Anthony Hopkins), to catch another murderer on the loose!
Do the Right Thing
1989 • R • 120 min
Spike Lee’s portrait of a single sweltering day in Brooklyn is urgent and unforgettable. A masterclass in storytelling and social commentary, it simmers with the intensity of a city, and nation, on the brink.
Got your popcorn ready? There’s a summer film out there calling your name. Load up with extra butter and press play!
