Gearing up for summer vacation, it is that time of year when I rewatch my favorite summer-themed movies. Check out the list to see which may interest you.
With summer vacation just around the corner, it is about time to rewatch my top five summer-feel films to get through the last months of school. In my opinion, they all maintain a lightheartedness that reminds me of muggy heat, pool chlorine, and the carefree feel that comes with seeing these iconic summer flicks.
- The Sandlot (1993) – This classic tells the story of baseball-obsessed kids who, stuck in their suburban neighborhood for the summer, need to make their own fun, including having several adventures, life-long bonding experiences, and of course, lots of baseball. “The Sandlot” is the epitome of 1960’s suburban summer childhood, with iconic lines that I still quote today (“You’re killin’ me, Smalls!”).
- 10 Things I Hate About You (1999) – A modern adaptation of Shakespeare’s comedy, “The Taming of the Shrew,” this movie juggles well-rounded characters, several romances, betrayals, and humor only to neatly be tied up at its hour and a half end. As it takes place over the last few weeks of school, “10 Things I Hate About You” is great for the long, final stretch before vacation.
- Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days (2012) – Following Greg Heffley in his usual, middle-child hijinx, I love this movie for its humor, and entertaining relatability. Having seen it more times than I can count, “Dog Days” is perfect for catching that summer vibe.
- Aquamarine (2006) – Sticking with summer childhood staples, this film tells the story of two best friends who meet a mermaid named Aquamarine. As they show her what life on two legs is like, each girl faces an end-of-summer event that will change their lives for better or worse. A silly, fun movie with thought-provoking elements, “Aquamarine” has not lost its luster for me yet.
- Dazed and Confused (1993) – My absolute favorite summer movie, “Dazed and Confused” follows Texas high school students on their last day of school and the start of summer vacation in 1976. The aesthetic and atmosphere impeccably captures the nostalgia of growing up, and the iconic decade of the ‘70s.