Summer Movies

April 2, 2021

Putting together a list of must-see films is always risky; inevitably, readers will wonder why certain movies were left out. Malahy (Turner Classic Movies) cleverly limits his scope to 30 films that take place in summer or depict a summer experience, some more prototypical than others. They are arranged chronologically, from the silent film Lonesome, to the film noir Key Largo, to Jaws, the first summer blockbuster, to the recent Call Me by Your Name. Every decade from the 1920s to the 2010s is represented, and each entry features Malahy's well-researched reviews, production details, behind-the-scene tidbits, photos, a "vacation inspiration" (why not head to Venice after watching Katharine Hepburn in Summertime?), and a recommendation for a double feature (for instance, try pairing National Lampoon's Vacation with Mr. Hobbs Takes a Vacation). VERDICT This fun compendium will delight trip planners who like their vacations movie-oriented, as well as everyone who loves classic films.--Rosellen Brewer, Sno-Isle Libs., Marysville, WA

Copyright 2021 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

June 1, 2021
This collection of 30 summer movies shows a range much wider than the sun-saturated beaches and light subject matter of Gidget and Beach Blanket Bingo. The films described range from classic to contemporary, silent to talkie to musical, humorous and light to deeply serious and thought-provoking. Noting that the idea of the "summer blockbuster" really began with Jaws (1975), movies in this collection run from 1928's Lonesome to Call Me by Your Name (2017). Entries are lavishly illustrated with both black-and-white and color photos. Each begins with a plot summary and biographical information on the leads and the director as well as background on the location. Additional features include a Vacation Inspiration (places and things to do that tie to the movie) and a Make It a Double Feature section, pairing each movie with another that complements it. The writing style is light, informative, and engaging--perfect summer reading on its own. An extensive bibliography of books and articles and a solid index round out a volume suitable for large public library collections and colleges and universities with a departmental focus on filmmaking.

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