Closing on the semester, it’s nearly time to bring out the sunscreen and bathing suits to enjoy these early days of summer. However, if you’re like me, the transition from school brain to summer brain isn’t always the easiest. I’ve compiled a list of some of my favorite films to get me in the warm, lazy headspace of summer vacation.
“Stand By Me”
Among the most classic ‘80s films, “Stand By Me” is one of those movies you’re legally obligated to see at some point in your life. Straying away from his usual novels, Stephen King wrote “The Body,” a coming-of-age novella set in 1960 Maine, which was soon after adapted into a film. Four friends, all different in character and personality, embark on a journey to find the body of a missing boy said to be on the outskirts of their small town. The friends take on this journey to prove something to their community, but end up finding themselves in the process. The film taps into viewers’ nostalgic feelings of spontaneity and curiosity from childhood.
“Grown Ups”
With the most perfect cast, including Adam Sandler, Chris Rock and Kevin James, “Grown Ups” has aged into an iconic summer comedy. When five childhood friends reunite for a weekend with their families, they can’t help but let childish games and rivalries disrupt their vacation. “Grown Ups” hosts endless sources of summer fun, like a day at the waterpark, rope-swinging into the lake and a Memorial Day basketball game. As these friends blur the lines between adulthood and childhood, they find out what life is really about.
“Starstruck”
Staying true to my roots, “Starstruck” will always be a summer staple. Jessica Olsen and her family travel to visit their grandma in busy Los Angeles, the hometown of pop star and teen heartthrob Christopher Wilde. Dragged on a wild goose chase with her obsessed sister, Olsen coincidentally runs into Wilde (literally) at one of his concerts. She is then pulled into Wilde’s world of nosy paparazzi and big responsibilities, where they must decide whether their differences should keep them apart. With a catchy pop song, “Something About the Sunshine,” and a tour of sunny California, “Starstruck” is a light-hearted, fun summer watch.
“Wild Hogs”
Wildly funny and witty, “Wild Hogs” is truly a hidden treasure. When four friends realize life is passing them by, they set out on a cross-country motorcycle trip from our very own Cincinnati to sunny California. As a dentist, plumber, computer programmer and businessman, this biker gang, the Wild Hogs, is anything but intimidating. After causing some unintentional issues on the road with the ruthless biker gang, the Del Fuegos, they are forced to pause their trip. The Wild Hogs find refuge in a small town that’s sure to bring beer-fueled shenanigans and other country mischief. Chasing a sense of freedom and youthfulness, these friends learn how to embrace the “wild” in their lives.
“Call Me By Your Name”
Starring Timothée Chalamet and Armie Hammer, “Call Me By Your Name” isn’t what I would call a cheesy summer rom-com. When Oliver, an American scholar, travels to Northern Italy to study archaeology alongside Elio Perlman’s father, the two find themselves caught in an unlikely love story. The film perfectly emanates the tranquil and carefree essence of summer afternoons. Biking through the countryside and swimming in a refreshing, clear river, the boys indulge in all the golden moments the season offers. With a phenomenal soundtrack, your obsession with this movie will last all summer.
“Grease”
For my musical lovers, “Grease” brings all the feel-good sweetness of a summer romance. This film follows the love story of T-Bird gang member, Danny Zuko, and his hidden love for sweet, innocent Sandy Olsen known as “Sandra Dee.” When Olsen unexpectedly enrolls at Zuko’s school, he must choose between the girl he loves and keeping up his tough-guy persona. With drive-ins, jukeboxes, milkshakes and leather jackets, “Grease” gives off a retro 1950s vibe as if you’ve stepped into a time machine.