The first hint of summer has entered our lives, and to accompany it, here are a set of films that will help it feel like mid-July rather than May. Summer is normally a time to go outside and have a barbecue, but this article is about a different type of barbie.
Barbie (2023)
Dir. Greta Gerwig
First up is a film that, while it is quite recent, received instant icon status. With a star-studded cast, Barbie is about the famous plastic doll as she struggles with her sense of identity. Questioning her role in the world, Barbie (Margot Robbie) battles with Ken (Ryan Gosling) about what life is really about. A touching film that provokes every emotion, there’s no lack of laughter here. To me, summer is about having fun and enjoying life before we get back to the harsh winter, and this film embraces that.
Jaws (1975)
Dir. Steven Spielberg
For those who don’t like comedy, this is for you. A classic horror movie, Jaws is one of the ultimate summer films, filled with beach vibes and jump scares. It’s the perfect film to watch at an outdoor screening, on a picnic blanket with the stars above you. Jaws is about a sheriff (Roy Scheider) teaming up with a marine biologist (Richard Dreyfuss) and local fisherman (Robert Shaw), to stop the infamous shark’s killing spree. Despite being nearly 50 years old, this is one of those movies that still feels fresh today. A must-watch, even if you’re not into horror.
Do The Right Thing (1989)
Dir. Spike Lee
Set during the hottest day of the year, this tension-building film is what you need when you want a reality check. Based on the Howard Beach incident in 1986, Do The Right Thing highlights cultural differences in a Brooklyn neighbourhood. A pizzeria owned by Italian Sal (Danny Aiello) and his sons cause a clash when he gets into an argument with neighbours Buggin Out (Giancarlo Esposito) and Radio Raheem (Bill Nunn) over an Italian actor wall. This is a film that challenges your opinion on whether peaceful or violent protest is the right way to go, and doesn’t answer that question for you.
Grease (1978)
Dir. Randal Kleiser
One of the most iconic musicals, this film embodies the summer spirit—especially with a song called ‘Summer Nights’—despite being set throughout the whole year. I just love its nostalgic vibe, and the way it brings you back to your own childhood days. Centering around a group of friends, it mainly follows the love life of Danny Zuko (John Travolta) and Sandy Olsson (Olivia Newton-John), and the ups and downs of senior year.
Mamma Mia (2008)
Dir. Phyllida Lloyd
Another musical (just a warning, so is the next one), but what more could you want in the summer than a Greek wedding, a dramatic love square and ABBA hits? Set on the fictional Greek island of Kalokairi, Mamma Mia follows the wedding of Sophie (Amanda Seyfried) and Sky (Dominic Cooper) alongside the messy love life of Sophie’s mother Donna (Meryl Streep) and her ex-boyfriends. A charming film and one with characters breaking into catchy songs every 5 minutes, it’s a classic for a reason. Transporting you to the ideal summer vacation, it is exactly what you need for long, warm days.
Dirty Dancing (1987)
Dir. Emile Ardolino
Dirty Dancing is the definition of a summer fling turned love. The story follows Baby (Jennifer Grey) falling in love with resort dancing instructor Jonny (Patrick Swayze), against the wishes of her family. Even though there was tension between the two main actors in this film, their chemistry in this movie is off the charts and makes you wish for something similar. Despite being released in October, this is definitely a summer film that encourages you to embrace happiness and love, taking what life gives you.
Charlie’s Angels (2000)
Dir. Elizabeth Banks, McG
A classic 2000 action movie, this film is over the top and I love it for that. While it would not do well if it was released now, it is definitely a film that embraces overt sexuality but still shows women as smart and capable of handling anything—a rare trait for women in the noughties. Three spies, Dylan (Drew Barrymore), Alex (Lucy Liu) and Natalie (Cameron Diaz), try to track down a kidnapped software engineer. A simple premise and style that needs to be brought back, this film is just what you need for a movie night with friends.
Weekend at Bernie’s (1989)
Dir. Ted Kotcheff
Dark humour? Check. Adventure? Check. Chase scene? Check. The perfect film for thrill-seekers, this is a slapstick classic. When two employees, Richard (Jonathan Silverman) and Larry (Andrew McCarthy), find their boss Bernie (Terry Kiser) dead in The Hamptons, they try to act like he is still alive. One of the funniest films on this list, the beach setting and summery soundtrack transport you out of drab British weather.
The Parent Trap (1998)
Dir. Nancy Meyers
Now for the kids’ movies, starting with this Linsey Lohan classic. Identical twins Hallie and Annie don’t know that the other exists until summer camp, where they decide to try and reconcile their divorced parents. A feel-good film that is perfect for a family watch, this movie is one of the best of its era.
The Goonies (1985)
Dir. Richard Donner
And finally, a film to wrap up the end to a perfect summer has to be The Goonies. With its treasure hunt plot, villainous threats and an inspiring story, this film’s close friendships and childish nature make it wonderfully nostalgic. While it has some questionable elements, the tense, stormy atmosphere and comedy elements bring the whole film together.
Words by Shivasri Kathiresan
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