20 Movies And Shows To Watch Before Summer Ends

Time to Stream! (This is for the Editorial Fellowship)

Summer of 2023 has been great for movies and series. With a wide range of genres and captivating storylines, there is something for everyone to enjoy this season.

Netflix / Via Giphy

Whether you prefer action-packed adventures, heartwarming dramas, or hilarious comedies, the following list of 20 movies and shows will surely keep you entertained throughout the summer.

20. The Lake

Prime Vide / Via IMDB

Starring 90's icon Julia Stiles, this Amazon Prime comedy series follows Justin as he tries reconnecting with his daughter Billie by making new memories at the family cottage, until he discovers that it was left to his stepsister. The Lake is a heartwarming and hilarious tale of family, friendship, and looking at life from a different perspective.

19. Call Me by Your Name

Sony Pictures / Via E Online

Set in Northern Italy during the summer of 1983, this coming-of-age drama follows the relationship between a 17-year-old boy and a visiting American scholar. Though the relationship between Elio (Timothee Chalamet) and Oliver (Armie Hammer) is odd and can be perceived as predatory, many have said this is their go to summer movie. The acting is good, so there's that.

18. Point Break

Warner Bros / Via Rotten Tomatoes

This 1991 crime action flick follows FBI agent Johnny Utah (Keanu Reeves) as he goes undercover to infiltrate a gang of bank robbers led by the mysterious Bodhi (Patrick Swayze). Over the course of his investigations, he's drawn into the thrill-seeking lifestyle of the robbers and eventually must make a difficult choice. The movie is a thrilling visual ride filled with thrilling stunts, exciting action sequences, and has Reeves and Swayze as the main leads. What more could you ask for?

17. The Little Mermaid

Disney / Via Disney Movies

Disney's long-awaited live-action reimagining of the classic fish-out-of-water story starring the talented Halle Bailey brings wonders to the screen. It's a great film for the whole family or friends. Trust me, you'll be belting out “Part of Your World," in no time.

16. Dazed & Confused

Gramercy Pictures / Via Ultimate Classic Rock

This 90's classic follows a group of teenagers on the last day of school. Set in Austin, Texas in the 70's, Dazed and Confused is a feel-good coming-of-age film with a banging soundtrack and a stellar cast.

Of course, Matthew McConaughey steals the show with classic one-liners, the most famous being "Alright, alright, alright."

15. Cruel Summer

Freeform

Freeform has just released its second season featuring a fresh storyline and a brand new cast. Similar to the first season, the second installment revolves around two girls during the 90s summer, packed with captivating twists and turns. If you're seeking a thrilling mystery rather than a lighthearted tale, then this show is made for you!

14. Aquamarine

20th Century Studios / Via Movies Anywhere

Another fish-out-of-water film, this chick flick follows teens Hailey, and Claire as they discover and befriend Aquamarine, a mermaid. Starring music icon, Jojo, Sara Paxton, and young Emma Roberts, this feel-good movie is great to watch at sleepovers, or if you're feeling nostalgic.

13. The Sandlot

20th Century Fox / Via Gephardt Daily

The Sandlot is a must-watch for anyone looking for a feel-good movie. Set in the summer of 1962, this coming-of-age film tells the story of a group of kids who bond over their love for baseball. It's a great for a family night, or if you want to reminisce about the good old days with your best buds.

12. Now and Then

New Line Cinema / Via E Online

Before she wrote the beloved tv series Pretty Little Liars, Marlene King wrote the screenplay to the heart-felt coming-of-age- film Now and Then. Set in the 90's, Now and Then follows Sam, Roberta, Teeny, and Chrissy as they reunite and reminiscence about their unforgettable summer of 1970. The film has plenty of A-list stars, and a brief cameo from (*sighs*)... Brendan Fraser.

11. Stand By Me

Columbia Pictures / Via Slash Film

Based on Stephen King's novella, Stand By Me is a classic coming-of-age story that follows four friends on a journey of self-discovery. It's a heartfelt reminder of the power of friendship and the innocence of childhood that will make you laugh and cry.

10. Grease

Paramount / Via The UK Number Ones Blog

Originally a stage musical of the same name, this 1978 cult classic starring John Travolta and the late Olivia Newton John emphasizes those "summer nights." It's a great movie for a night in with friends, with its catchy songs, nostalgia-inducing plot, and a light-hearted atmosphere. It's sure to bring back memories of high school, and will have you humming along to the classic soundtrack. If you've never seen it, just expect some outdated jokes.

9. Dirty Dancing

Vestron Pictures / Via E Online

Dirty Dancing is a cult classic Rom-Com about seventeen year old Baby ( who falls in love with a dance instructor at a summer resort. The movie is known for its iconic dance scenes, catchy soundtrack, and memorable quotes. It has been remade several times and is one of the most iconic films of the 1980s.

8. The Sisterhood of the Travelling Pants 1& 2

Warner Bros / Via Seventeen Magazine

Based on Anne Brashares' novels, The Sisterhood of the Travelling Pants movies follows four best friends and their journey of sisterhood as they navigate the world of young adulthood. Starring Blake Lively, America Ferrera, Alexis Bledel and Amber Tamblyn, these feel-good movies are perfect for an enjoyable time with your girlfriends, moms, and sisters. They even may make you teary eyed. (No judgement here).

7. Bend it Like Beckham

Sundance / WireImage / Via IMDB

This British sports comedy-drama starring Parminder Nagra and a young Keira Knightley as Jess and Jules follows the two as they chase their dreams of becoming pro football (soccer) players. A classic girls' night in flick, Bend it Like Beckham is a feel-good movie in every way.

6. Mamma Mia & Mamma Mia: Here We Go Again

Universal Pictures / Via BC Heights

Mamma Mia & Mamma Mia: Here We Go Again are both feel-good movies that bring the music of ABBA to life in a unique and powerful way. Following the story of Sophie and her mother Donna, these movies explore the complicated relationships between mothers and daughters, and the power of love and family. With its catchy musical numbers, lovable characters, and memorable moments, these two movies will make you laugh, cry, and sing along.

5. High School Musical 2

Disney / Via D23

"What time is it?" Time to watch High School Musical 2! In this beloved Disney Channel trilogy, HSM 2 follows the East Side Gang as they get summer jobs at the beloved Lava Springs country club, but trouble always seems to find its way for these teens. This classic, yet cheesy sequel is great for a rainy day and truly embraces what summer is all about!

4. Stranger Things

Netflix / Via E Online

Stranger Things isn't usually a summer vibe, but season 3 is as it's set in the summer of 1985. Don't be fooled, it's not all mall rat and chill. There's plenty of suspense like the previous seasons, but this one is more toned down, which I appreciate.

3. Outer Banks

Netflix / Via ResortReality

I think I speak for everyone when I say that Outer Banks is everything Summer related. From parties, boats, and surfing, to spending time with friends, there's something exciting about watching Outer Banks in the summer. Maybe it's because its filmed in the Carolinas, or just because they add the magical touch of a treasure-hunting plot. Whatever it is, it works.

2. The Summer I Turned Pretty

Prime Video / Via People

Amazon Prime's hit series The Summer I Turned Pretty follows fifteen-year-old Belly, as she navigates love, friendship during another Summer at Cousins Beach. It's a show that speaks to anyone who has ever experienced a summer romance, an unrequited love, or a complicated bond with a sibling. Belly's story of self-discovery and growth is relatable and inspiring, making it a show worth watching.

1. The Barbie Movie

WarnerBros / Via Wonderland Magazine

Was there any other answer? Already number one at the box office, Barbie mania took over the world thanks to Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling as Barbie and Ken. Oh, and we have to give credit where it's due- Greta Gerwig did a fabulous job creating a film that speaks to everyone, and I mean everyone! If you haven't seen this yet, what are you waiting for?

So, whether you're in the mood for a heart-stopping action flick, a tear-jerking drama, or a belly-laugh inducing comedy, this summer's lineup of movies and shows has got you covered. Grab your popcorn, get comfy on the couch, and let the summer viewing begin! Did we miss any? Let us know in the comments!

brunodajin / Via Tenor