My top movie recommendations to watch this summer
From musicals and comedies to drama and horror, these recommendations will kick-off your summer
Given how summer is the season of relaxation and adventure, it's the perfect time kick-back and watch a movie. (Unsplash/Derek Sutton)
Summer is a time of sunshine, relaxation, and adventure. But it’s also the perfect season for enjoying movies that transport us to different worlds, evoke strong emotions, and leave us with lasting memories. Whether you prefer action-packed blockbusters, heartwarming comedies, or captivating dramas, these are my top movie recommendations to kick-off your summer.
Whether you enjoy them or not, you can’t deny the spirit of a good musical, especially one set in summer. For me, that’s Mamma Mia, a feel-good musical comedy based on the songs of ABBA, featuring an all-star cast including Meryl Streep, Amanda Seyfried, Colin Firth, and Pierce Brosnan. It’s a perfect choice for a lighthearted and fun summer watch.
Another must see for summer is one of my favourite films of all time, Grease. This lively musical, set in the 1950s, follows the summer romance between Danny Zuko, portrayed by John Travolta, and Sandy Olsson, played by Olivia Newton-John.
Summer ignites our sense of adventure and curiosity, and films in the fantasy and adventure genres capture that spirit perfectly. Movie series like Indiana Jones and Jurassic Park transport us to magical realms, epic quests, and swashbuckling escapades. These films offer a sense of wonder, captivating us with enchanting worlds, mythical creatures, and epic battles that ignite our imagination.
Sometimes we crave movies that delve into deeper emotions and offer poignant storytelling. Summer also brings us thought-provoking dramas that explore complex human experiences and touch our hearts. Under the Tuscan Sun, starring Diane Lane and Sandra Oh, is a heartwarming, romantic comedy-drama. After a divorce, writer Frances Mayes impulsively buys a rundown villa in Tuscany, Italy. As she embarks on a journey of self-discovery and restoration, she finds unexpected friendships, love, and a renewed sense of purpose amidst the breathtaking landscapes and charming culture of Italy.
Imagine Me and You, starring Game of Thrones actor Lena Headey, features Rachel whose life takes an unexpected turn when she falls in love with a woman, Luce, on her wedding day. As Rachel navigates her feelings and societal expectations, she must decide whether to follow her heart or conform to the norms of her world.
And who doesn’t love a summer film with Scarlett Johansson and Penelopé Cruz? I know I do. Vicky Cristina Barcelona is a captivating, romantic drama. Two American friends, Vicky and Cristina, embark on a summer trip to Barcelona and become entangled in a complicated love triangle with a charismatic artist named Juan Antonio. As their relationships evolve, they must confront their desires, passions, and the complexities of love, leading to unexpected consequences.
There’s something uniquely thrilling about embracing the darker side of the season. Horror movies provide an excellent way to add an extra dose of excitement and suspense to your summer. From terrifying monsters to psychological thrillers, the horror genre offers a wide range of films that are sure to keep you on the edge of your seat either outside or inside.
Films like Midsommar, starring Florence Pugh, do exactly that and might leave you scarred for life. A grieving woman, Dani, joins her boyfriend and his friends on a trip to a remote Swedish village for a midsummer festival. However, the seemingly idyllic celebration takes a dark and twisted turn, as they become entangled in a cult’s disturbing rituals and find themselves trapped in a waking nightmare. Don’t say I didn’t warn you.
