Article by Sophia Cederburg

If you are anything like me, you like to match your mood to your movie of choice. So in this 100 degree July heat, you aren’t necessarily looking for a gloomy film with autumnal motifs. There’s definitely certain elements I’m looking for in a summer movie, included but not limited to a paradisal setting, coming-of-age themes and a majority of the movie’s durations spent outdoors.

So for any cinephiles, or casual movie enjoyers, I have listed below eight quintessential summer movies, for fans of comedies, horrors and dramas alike, that will surely tick off the important themes of anyone’s summer journey.

Stand by Me

“Stand by Me” (1986) is a heartfelt coming of age film following four boys who set out on a journey to find the missing body of a boy. The movie perfectly encapsulates the nostalgic feeling of spending a summer day outside with your friends. It’s heartfelt, amusing and bittersweet encapsulated in a film fit for a hot summer evening.

Waves

If you are looking for a drama to watch this summer, “Waves” (2019) is the perfect movie for you. There are two parts in this film told from the different perspectives of a brother and sister. “Waves” explores themes of love, forgiveness, pressure and familial bonds while blending sports drama, romance and tragedy for a movie that hits home for every viewer. For lovers of a good soundtrack and unique cinematography, Waves is the perfect late summer film.

Barb and Star Go to Vista del Mar

If dramas aren’t your speed and you’re looking for something to lift your spirits this summer, watch “Barb and Star Go to Vista del Mar” (2021). This wacky comedy stars two best friends as they leave their lackluster lives in the midwest for a resort vacation in Florida. But not is all as it seems in this idyllic paradise. For a good laugh and campy vibes, join Barb and Star on this summer adventure.

Luca

“Luca” (2021) is practically summer in a movie. This heartfelt coming-of-age animation takes place on the Italian Riviera and follows two sea monster boys as they attempt to navigate the human world. It has all the correct ingredients for a summer film: the ocean, gelato and friendship. This movie also explores themes of self identity and acceptance, creating a full package of self-discovery for the viewers seeking new purposes and journeys this summer.

Y tu mamá también

If you are not a Spanish speaker, or you are not interested in reading subtitles, then “Y tu mama tambien” (2001) might not be the film for you. But those who weren’t scared off by my previous warnings, will find a dreamy summer movie set in Mexico during a state of political unrest. Two young boys follow a woman on her journey of self-discovery, and on the way, find a little something about themselves. “Y tu mama tambien” is one of those movies where you can feel the heat oozing from the movie and smell the ocean on the screen.

The Swimmer

Cult classic, “The Swimmer” (1968), is the story of a man who makes it his mission to swim home through his neighbors’ pools. The movie starts as a charming, whimsical story about a popular suburban man embarking on a nonsensical journey. However, our protagonist’s true nature is revealed as the movie goes on, turning into a critique on the American Dream. If you’re looking for classic summer feelings with a subtle deeper meaning,“The Swimmer” is a perfect pick.

I Know What You Did Last Summer

There’s no reason to wait till Halloween to watch horror movies. “I Know What You Did Last Summer” (1997) is a summer slasher to get you started on your scary movie marathon. This film follows four friends who, while hiding a dark secret, began to experience a stalker targeting their lives. This movie is set in a small, coastal town, making it the perfect summer thriller to add to your watchlist.

Call Me By Your Name

“Call Me by Your Name” (2017) is the Italian summer film. This romantic drama follows a teenager as he navigates his identity and relationship with his father’s research assistant. Combining a halcyon Mediterranean background with a coming-of-age romance, this film can only be described as “sun-drenched.”

Hopefully you find solace and appreciation amongst at least one of these movies as we round up our summer. Happy watching fellow wolf-packs!