Summer is officially upon us! This is the perfect time to relax, unwind, and enjoy a great movie, whether you’re relaxing by the pool, in the backyard, or just at home. These summer movies capture the essence of the season and keep you entertained. Grab your popcorn. Find your favorite comfortable spot. Then dive in. These are the best summer movies you need to see this year!
1. Call Me by Your Name (2017)
- Director: Luca Guadagnino
- Overview: Set in the breathtaking Italian countryside during the summer of 1983, this film tells the story of Elio, a 17-year-old who embarks on a passionate affair with Oliver, a graduate student visiting his family. Their summer is filled with exploration, desire, and the bittersweet pain of first love.
- Why Watch: The film beautifully captures the intense love of youth and the feeling of an endless summer. Believe in the magic of summer romance. It is a must-see with its lush visuals and mesmerizing performances. The chemistry between Timothy Chalamet and Armie The Hammers clearly fits together. And you almost fainted!
2. The Way Way Back (2013)
- Director: Nat Faxon, Jim Rash
- Overview: This coming-of-age story centers on 14-year-old Duncan, who feels like an outsider during a summer vacation with his mom and her overbearing boyfriend. After taking a job at a water park, he finds friendship and begins to build his confidence.
- Why Watch: It resonates with anyone who has felt out of place or struggled to fit in. It’s relatable and heartwarming and features a fantastic cast, including Steve Carell and Sam Rockwell! Their performances are spot-on, and the film blends humor and emotional depth perfectly. 🎢
3. Vicky Cristina Barcelona (2008)
- Director: Woody Allen
- Overview: This romantic drama revolves around two American women, Vicky and Cristina, who spend a summer in Barcelona. Their lives become intertwined with a charming artist and his fiery ex-wife, leading to complex relationships and self-discovery.
- Why Watch: This film is a celebration of the senses. It showcases the vibrant culture and beauty of Spain. It explores themes of love and desire in an engaging and thought-provoking way, and the chemistry between the actors is also intriguing. Makes for an enjoyable watch!❤️
4. Snack Shack (2019)
- Director: Jennifer Nicole Stang
- Overview: This lighthearted film follows a group of friends who run a summer snack shack, navigating the ups and downs of life, love, and friendship. It’s all about the joy of summer and the simple pleasures that come with it.
- Why Watch: If you’re in the mood for something uplifting and fun, this movie will have you reminiscing about summer days spent with friends. It’s a perfect reminder that sometimes, the simplest moments are the most meaningful! 🍦
5. (500) Days of Summer (2009)
- Director: Marc Webb
- Overview: This nonlinear narrative tells the story of Tom, who falls for Summer, a woman who doesn’t believe in love. The film takes viewers through the highs and lows of their relationship, making it both refreshing and relatable.
- Why Watch: It offers a unique take on love that’s uplifting and bittersweet. The soundtrack is fantastic, and the film’s exploration of love and heartbreak is sure to resonate with many viewers. It’s a film that reminds us that sometimes love doesn’t turn out how we expect. 🎶
6. Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood (2019)
- Director: Quentin Tarantino
- Overview: Set in 1969 Los Angeles, this film follows fading actor Rick Dalton and his stunt double, Cliff Booth, as they navigate the changing landscape of Hollywood. It’s a captivating blend of fact and fiction, filled with humor and nostalgia.
- Why Watch: Tarantino’s storytelling and stellar performances from Leonardo DiCaprio and Brad Pitt make this a summer must-see! The film is a love letter to Hollywood’s golden age, and it’ll have you laughing and reminiscing about the film industry’s evolution. 🌟
7. Dìdi (2019)
- Director: Aniruddha Roy Chowdhury
- Overview: This Bengali film revolves around Dìdi, a young woman navigating the complexities of love and family while dealing with societal expectations. It’s a heartfelt exploration of relationships and self-identity.
- Why Watch: It provides a fresh perspective on love and family dynamics, making it thought-provoking. The story’s cultural nuances and emotional depth will resonate with viewers. ❤️
8. Fire Island (2022)
- Director: Andrew Ahn
- Overview: A modern twist on Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice,” this film follows a group of queer friends who gather for a week of fun, love, and self-discovery on Fire Island.
- Why Watch: It’s hilarious and heartfelt, celebrating friendship and LGBTQ+ culture. The humor is sharp, and the characters are relatable, making it a delightful addition to any summer watch list! 🏳️🌈
9. Dazed and Confused (1993)
- Director: Richard Linklater
- Overview: This cult classic captures the last day of school in 1976, following a group of teenagers navigating the highs and lows of adolescence. It’s filled with iconic moments, unforgettable characters, and a killer soundtrack that’ll have you singing along!
- Why Watch: It’s a nostalgic trip back to the carefree days of youth—perfect for those hot summer nights! The film is not just about the end of school; it’s about the transition into adulthood and the memories that stick with us. 🎸
10. Little Miss Sunshine (2006)
- Director: Valerie Faris, Jonathan Dayton
- Overview: This quirky road trip film follows a dysfunctional family traveling across the country to support their daughter’s dream of competing in a beauty pageant.
- Why Watch: It’s hilarious and heartwarming, showcasing the importance of family and resilience. Each character brings something unique to the table, and their journey is filled with ups and downs that make you laugh and cry equally! 🌻
Must-Watch Movies on MoviesLara! 🎬🍿
Are you looking for something to watch? We’ve got you covered with a fantastic lineup of films perfect for any mood! Whether you’re in the mood for drama, comedy, or fantasy, these selections will surely entertain. And remember, you can enjoy them all ad-free at MoviesLara!
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V for Vendetta (2005)
- Director: James McTeigue
- Overview: Set in a dystopian future, this gripping film follows a masked vigilante, V, fighting against an oppressive government. It’s a powerful watch with themes of fit’som and rebellion that will leave you thinking long after the credits roll.
- Watch it here: V for Vendetta
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The Departed (2006)
- Director: Martin Scorsese
- Overview: This thrilling crime drama revolves around an undercover cop and a mole in the police department trying to identify each other while infiltrating an Irish gang. With stellar performances from Leonardo DiCaprio and Jack Nicholson, it’s a nail-biter!
- Watch it here: The Departed.
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Big MMomma’sHouse 2 (2006)
- Director: John Whitesell
- Overview: In this hilarious sequel, FBI agent Malcolm Turner goes undercover as the larger-than-life Big Momma to protect a family and solve a case. It’s packed with laughs and heartwarming moments!
- Watch it here: Big MMomma’sHouse 2
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Over the Hedge (2006)
- Director: Tim Johnson, Karey Kirkpatrick
- Overview: This animated comedy features a group of woodland creatures who wake up from hibernation to find a suburban neighborhood encroaching on their territory. They team up to raid the humans’ food supplies—fun and chaos ensue!
- Watch it here: Over the Hedge.
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Futari wa Precure Max Heart: The Movie (2005)
- Director: Daisuke Nishio
- Overview: Dive into this magical girl anime movie featuring Cure Black and Cure White as they battle against evil forces. It’s A colorful, action-packed film that fans of the genre will adore!
- Watch it here: Futari wa Precure Max Heart: The Movie.
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Corpse Bride (2005)
- Director: Tim Burton
- Overview: This stop-motion animated film follows Victor, who accidentally proposes to a deceased bride while rehearsing his vows in the woods. It’s a unique and visually stunning tale about love and the afterlife!
- Watch it here: Corpse Bride.
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Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (2005)
- Director: Tim Burton
- Overview: Based on Roald DDahl’s classic story, this whimsical film follows Charlie Bucket as he wins a tour of Willy Wonka’s magical chocolate factory. It’s filled with imagination, laughter, and a touch of adventure!
- Watch it here: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
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Fantastic Four (2005)
- Director: Tim Story
- Overview: Join MMarvel’s first family as they navigate their new powers after exposure to cosmic rays. This superhero flick combines action, humor, and heart—perfect for fans of the genre!
- Watch it here: Fantastic Four.
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The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (2005)
- Director: Andrew Adamson
- Overview: Based on C.S.’s beloved novel, this fantasy adventure follows four siblings who discover a magical world through a wardrobe. With stunning visuals and a timeless story, it’s a journey worth taking!
- Watch it here: The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.
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Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (2005)
- Director: Mike Newell
- Overview: In this thrilling installment of the Harry Potter series, Harry mysteriously enters the Triwizard Tournament, facing dangerous tasks and dark forces. It’s A fan favorite that brings magic to life!
- Watch it here: Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire.
