5 Summer Movies to Watch Before the Season is Over
Hot, sweaty, sunny days…some people really enjoy this weather, huh? Summer does have its perks. Better local traffic with school being out. No one judges you for eating frozen sweets every day. And you can walk outside nearly naked and people will totally understand why.
When you want a break from actually being out in the sun, there’s plenty of good Summer movies that can carry that vibe for you while you enjoy a cool air conditioned room to relax in. Below are five Summer flicks to watch before the season is out.
Do The Right Thing
A heatwave of tension and truth in 1989 Brooklyn
Courtesy of Forty Acres and a Mule/ SHOTDECK
A Spike Lee classic. Do The Right Thing is not necessarily a “feel good” movie but more of a serious watch. Tensions are as high as the weather within the community in 1989 Brooklyn. I wasn’t born until 1990, but I remember hot days that seemed like this growing up in Philly. It’s sad that even now in 2025, so much of the racial and social issues presented in this film are still relevant today.
A great cast awaits with well known names such as Danny Aiello, Giancarlo Esposito, Rosie Perez, Samuel L. Jackson, and of course Spike Lee among others. Try not to pull a muscle trying to keep up with Rosie Perez’s dancing in the beginning of the movie to Public Enemy’s Fight the Power; sis was popping HARD.
Call Me By Your Name
A coming-of-age heartbreak
Courtesy of Frenesy Film Company/ SHOTDECK
It was actually a tough decision to include this movie on the list—because, truthfully, I can’t stand it. My dislike is directed squarely at the character Oliver, played by Armie Hammer, who is the epitome of an asshole. On the other hand, Timothée Chalamet’s Elio is completely lovable, and I genuinely feel for him in this coming-of-age “romance.” I use that term loosely—Elio’s is clearly a teenager experiencing his first rush with love, while I can’t say the same for Oliver (who’s seven years older). By the end, I feel nothing but pure rage toward Oliver and his pathetic phone call.
Despite my personal misgivings, this movie undeniably carries the weight of a coming-of-age summer tale that people might connect with on many levels. And let’s be honest—being in Italy during summer is magical, and the film captures that beautifully. Just try not to catch serious feelings like our sweet guy Elio.
How Stella Got Her Groove Back
Grown folks’ romance
Courtesy of 20th Century Studios/ SHOTDECK
Another summer romance with an age controversy—except in this one, both folks are actually grown. I remember when How Stella Got Her Groove Back first came out and it was all the rage, especially because it’s based on the real-life experience of author Terry McMillan.
Angela Bassett and Taye Diggs are so steamy in this movie. I was forced to close my eyes during certain scenes when my mom and auntie had it playing in the house. As an adult, I now understand why.
This is a grown folks' summer romance from the vibes, the music, the acting, and the overall essence. It’s the kind of film you’ll want to watch while sipping some wine and soaking in the story.
The Parent Trap
Summer camp chaos, twin magic, and Lindsay Lohan nostalgia
Courtesy of Walt Disney Pictures/ SHOTDECK
Going back to my childhood, The Parent Trap with Lindsay Lohan was one of my absolute FAVORITE movies. This still holds true at my big age, because I still love this movie. A set of twins finding each other at summer camp and going from enemies to besties to sisters is a summer tale like no other.
I know, I know, you’re probably going to mention It Take Two with the Olsen twins (who I also love), and although that is another goody, Parent Trap just hits different for me.
And yes, I also know that The Parent Trap is a remake of the original from the 60’s. Still, I gotta stand by my girl Lindsay.
I went from loving her in The Parent Trap to Freaky Friday and Mean Girls, so I pretty much grew up watching her. Whichever version you choose, just know the childhood nostalgic summer feels will absolutely be there.
Midsommar
Sun-drenched horror with flower crowns and emotional descent
Courtesy of A24/ SHOTDECK
Since summer gives way to fall, and fall slides into Halloween,let’s end with something spooky, shall we? Midsommar is my favorite film by Ari Aster and one of my favorite films in general. I accept full judgement; this movie is disturbing and dark. That’s actually part of the reason why I enjoy it so much.
It starts off with a bang and descends into emotional darkness like no other, all while staying visually bright and hauntingly beautiful. By the end you don’t know if you should be happy for the main character or deeply disturbed…maybe a little of both.One thing I do know for sure? I have absolutely no plans to ever attend a festival deep in unknown woods. Like, ever.
Please, share some of your favorite Summer with me so I can keep them on my bucket list.