1. Superbad
Ah, “Superbad.” Being the ultimate coming-of-age dirtbag movie, this film deserves a top spot on the list. Featuring Michael Cera, Jonah Hill and Christopher Mintz-Plasse as the main trio, they get into all sorts of shenanigans in a last-ditch attempt to party hard and lose their virginity before going to college. Pursuing their mighty Arthurian quest, the characters blaze through the 2-hour comedy drinking, getting hit by cars and making pitiful attempts to entice girls to sleep with them. Director Greg Mottola makes this a super-fun watch and at the end, the boys learn the true power of friendship. If you want, you could use the film as a model for your own summer break; just don’t make a fake ID using the name Muhammad.
2. Moonrise Kingdom
The 10th film in Wes Anderson’s beautiful filmography, this is a truly special movie. Set in the summer of 1964, kids Sam and Suzy make a plot to run away together, fueled by their childish romantic affinity for one another. As the audience, we peer into the mechanics of childhood summers once again, with a backdrop of woodsy rebellion and quirky characters. A brewing storm serves as a catalyst towards the unknown, of which the adults get lost but the young duo find a way to survive together in their short-lived scheme. Everything about this movie is perfect, the set, costumes, characters, cinematography and overall: the suspense and nostalgia it brings.
3. Marie Antoinette
Who doesn’t love a movie draped in lavish delights for the summertime? This film, directed by Sofia Coppola, showcases the sweet indulgence of a teenage Marie Antoinette (played by her favorite Kirsten Dunst), and her dealings in the French court. It brings a more fantastical and feminine side to an otherwise sad story of the monarch. Winning the 2007 Academy Award for Best Costume Design, the visually stunning costumes stand out among other historical re-tellings. Not exactly aiming for historical accuracy, Coppola makes this movie spectacular with its soundtrack, settings, props and over-the-top luxury the film exudes.
4. The Wolf of Wall Street
All aboard the SS Naomi, this movie is the definition of summer fun, perhaps…too much. Another film packed with obscene indulgence, you’re bound to either love or hate it. We all honestly watched it for Margot Robbie or Leonardo DiCaprio but stayed for the explicit chaos in every. single. scene. Everything about this movie warrants a second, third, or even fourth watch, all to end up using excessive New York stockbroker swearing in arguments with friends. Martin Scorcese hit the nail on the head with this summer movie, from the soundtrack, powdery props, and witty script, to the legendary casting.
5. Lilo & Stitch
The obligatory Disney movie pick, “Lilo & Stitch,” is a timeless summer movie. The characters are unforgettable and you can’t help but love them. Set in Hawaii, the film feels like a breath of fresh air from Disney’s usual princess route while featuring a strong set of lead female characters, Lilo and Nani. Stitch is an instant hit for the audience and one can’t happen across a children’s summer camp without seeing his face somewhere on a water bottle. A great family-friendly movie for all, “Lilo & Stitch” remains in our hearts.
