7 Films That Feel Like Summer and Where to Stream Them
As the days get longer and the weather gets warmer—or still raining in the case of the UK—there’s nothing quite like a good summer film to get you in the mood for the season. Whether you’re basking in the sunshine or waiting out the drizzle, the perfect summer movie can evoke the essence of long, lazy days and vibrant, balmy evenings.
From nostalgic classics to fresh, new tales, here are seven films that are bound to make you feel summery—some old favourites that have stood the test of time, and some new friends ready to be discovered and cherished.
Dirty Dancing (1987, dir. Emile Ardolino)
This classic 1980s film is all about love, dance, and unforgettable summer nights. Taking place at a Catskills summer resort in the 1960s, Dirty Dancing revolves around Francis ‘Baby’ Houseman, who spends her summer falling in love with her dance instructor, Johnny Castle (Patrick Swayze). Their romance, coupled with iconic dance scenes and an even more iconic soundtrack, makes it a timeless summer classic. Add She’s Like The Wind to your summer Spotify playlist right now.
Stream on Amazon Prime Video and Disney+
Dazed and Confused (1994, dir. Richard Linklater)
Set on the last day of school in the 1970s, this nostalgic film is a cult classic that perfectly captures the carefree spirit of summer as it follows a group of teenagers as they celebrate the end of the school year. Directed by Richard Linklater (more about him later), the movie features a young Matthew McConaughey, Ben Affleck, and Milla Jovovich, whose performances have become iconic over time.
The film’s soundtrack is equally memorable, filled with classic dad-rock hits from bands like Aerosmith, KISS, and Deep Purple. From the hazing rituals of incoming freshmen to the bittersweet farewells of graduating seniors, “Dazed and Confused” encapsulates the essence of youthful freedom, making it an enduring favourite for anyone looking to relive or imagine the endless possibilities of a summer long gone. Go see it with a bud!
Stream on Amazon Prime Video.
Somewhere (2010, dir. Sofia Coppola)
Sofia Coppola’s film Somewhere captures the languid feel of summer as it follows Johnny Marco (Stephen Dorff), a Hollywood actor, reconnecting with his daughter (Elle Fanning) at the Chateau Marmont in Los Angeles. Coppola’s direction is grounded in the subtleties of the moments within the father-daughter relationship, using long takes and minimal dialogue to create a meditative atmosphere that mirrors the lazy days of summer. It’s one of the great unknowns in Sofia Coppola’s work but is filled with genuine warmth and tenderness.
Available to purchase on Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Google Play
High School Musical 2 (2007, dir. Kenny Ortega)
The word ‘iconic’ gets thrown around a lot in pop culture. For a certain age group, High School Musical fits that bill. As someone who had plenty of HSM-themed birthday parties growing up, summer just isn’t summer without first watching the second movie in the series.
For those who don’t know, the movie follows Troy (Zac Efron), Gabriella (Vanessa Hudgens), and their friends as they take on summer jobs at a country club.
Get ready for some summer fun with this energetic and feel-good musical. The movie is full of catchy songs, awesome dance numbers, and all the summer break vibes you could want. Whether you’re singing along to the soundtrack or reminiscing about the best day on Disney Channel, High School Musical 2 is a must-watch for some sunny vibes and youthful energy.
Stream on Disney+.
Before Sunrise (1995, dir. Richard Linklater)
The second Linklater film on the list, Before Sunrise has recently found its place within the romance film canon after being a sleeper hit for decades. The film follows Jesse (Ethan Hawke) and Celine (Julie Delpy), who meet interrailing in Europe and decide to spend an evening together in Vienna on Bloomsday. The film captures the spontaneity and romance of summer travels and finding a fleeting connection. Like Dazed and Confused, the film is character-driven rather than narrative and highlights how beautiful Vienna is during summer.
Available to purchase on Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Google Play
The Talented Mr Ripley (1999, dir. Anthony Minghella)
Immerse yourself in the glamourous and sun-drenched Italian Rivera in Anthony Minghella’s gripping psychological thriller. Based on Patricia Highsmith, the film follows Tom Ripley (Matt Damon) as he is sent to Europe to retrieve a rich and spoilt millionaire playboy (Jude Law). As he becomes enamoured with the lifestyle, his actions take a dark turn.
Stream on Amazon Prime Video and Netflix
Barb and Star Go To Vista Del Mar (2021, dir. Josh Greenbaum)
This comedy follows lifelong best friends Barb and Star, who have always lived in their small, quaint Midwestern town and never ventured far from home. For the first time, they decide to embark on an exciting trip and vacation in the tropical paradise of Vista Del Mar, Florida. The film doesn’t shy away from absurdity and embraces a whimsical atmosphere (big shout out to Jamie Doran who fully embraces this!)
Written by Kristen Wiig and Annie Mumolo, the same minds behind the hit comedy ‘Bridesmaids’, this film is like if Jimmy Buffett’s ‘Margaritaville’ had a child with Greta Gerwig’s ‘Barbie’ (sprinkling in a Euro-pop remix of Celine Dion’s ‘My Heart Will Go On’. The film had the unfortunate timing of being released during Covid- so dear reader, give this film a chance, we beg of you!
Stream on Amazon Prime Video
