My Favorite ☀️ Summer Movies
The 19 movies below are some of my favories in this genre. Whenever this season or mood arrives, items from this list are my go-to comfort food. To qualify, a movie must be solidly in-genre and be highly rated (or purposefully bad). Either way, these are the cream of their respective crop.
Each movie is scored on my 4-point rating system. Please let me know if you'd like to nominate an addition!
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Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl
The pacing and CGI really hold up, as do the sense of fun about the whole thing. Action is good, writing is snappy, world is well-developed. A fitting start to the franchise.
Recess: School's Out
A little cheesy, but enjoyable and nostalgic. Surprisingly good message and voice cast.
A Goofy Movie
I've really got a new appreciation for it after watching the documentary. They took a classic story, mixed in some pretty heavy emotion, plenty of laughs, and a killer soundtrack to make something truly special.
Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest
Amazing. Probably my favorite of the whole series. Great action, music, and character development.
Contact
One of my favorites. I love the intersection of religion, science, and politics that feels as fresh today as it did in the 90s. Stellar ensemble cast and examination of our place in the universe.
Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure
So good hearted, which paves over any other issues (of which there are few)
Wet Hot American Summer
Absurd and irreverant while having a great heart at its core. Lots of moving pieces, but the narrative comes toegther well. Light and fun, just like summer should be.
Holes
Stacked cast, tight screenplay, and a good story. Truly an all-timer.
The Sandlot
Not quite as good as I remember, but there's a lot of charm. I like how it's all told through the lens of these kids and captures the nostalgia of a great summer.
In the Heights
Some cute intertwined love stories, big spectacles, and great music pull the whole thing together. Great cast too. Big summer vibes.
Luca
Deeply cute. Great vibe, good story. Enjoyed it way more than I expected.
The Goonies
A little hokier / more frantic than I remembered, but it's got a great cast and a lot of heart
Magic Mike XXL
Huge improvement on the first. Fun, cute, great ensemble. Cute message, too. Lighter on the story, but that’s not bad.
