A Hot Girl’s Guide to Summer Film Essentials
By Natalie McCarty
For some reason, every summer I like to get real existential crisis-y with the media I consume. My old roommate and dear friend, Leen-Noemi, used to make fun of me for pulling out the most guttural grunge and punk songs in the summer. Not a time for strappy heels and girl pop, this is my time to feel the summer sweltering heat all “Black Hole Sun” style in my cut off Jimi Hendrix T-shirt I stole from my ex-boyfriend and the wool-insulated black combat boots that I somehow find a way to rock in every season.
I hole up in my room, rewatching gut-wrenching classics like Call Me by Your Name, Brokeback Mountain, and Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind. Summer turns me into a sentimental, reflective mess — I rot away to the tune of Alice in Chains’ “Rotten Apple.” That’s my summer ritual. That’s what it feels like.
However; this summer I’m dedicating myself to making a change. Probably because it’s my first summer in years that I’m not going through a breakup or some weird situationship, I get to actually commit to the bit of the “hot girl summer.” Adopting this mindset, I’m saying yes to things!
I’m saying yes — to spontaneous trips to Phoenix (even if I can’t escape the heat), to swapping out my beloved jorts for mini skirts, and to nights out with the girls in Palm Springs. Yes to jumping into that movie project, yes to helping out with that script! Yes to embracing creativity, making memories, and honing my craft.
So, I’ve picked out five movies that embody this summer vibe for me. They’re personal favorites, each a classic in its own right. Let’s talk about them.
Still from Almost Famous
Almost Famous
It’s been ages since a film left me feeling totally refreshed and reinvigorated. There’s a certain je ne sais quoi, a magnetic charm shared among films like Almost Famous, Singles, Fast Times at Ridgemont High, Before Sunrise, Reality Bites, Empire Records, Valley Girl, A Walk on the Moon, and High Fidelity (some bonus recommendations for you). These movies transport you to a moment in time so completely that you get swept up in it. It feels like the best part of summer — late June, when you’ve settled into your routine, free from the anxieties of early August and the sweltering heat of July.
It’s just something quite special.
BTS from Almost Famous
I watched Almost Famous for the first time a few nights ago. It was one of those films I knew would be so utterly and completely “me,” as confirmed by my friends for years. I kept putting it off, worried that my expectations were too high and waiting for the perfect moment — a perfect day in late June.
Still from Almost Famous
That day finally came, and I sat down with my mom and brother to watch this love letter to the ‘70s — a time I deeply resonate with, despite being born decades later. Almost Famous is both free-spirited and authentic. It’s got one of the greatest soundtracks of all time, a brilliantly written plot, lovable characters, and impeccable pacing.
A total coming-of-age cult classic about rock and roll, journalistic integrity, and independence. It speaks to every generation stirring up either memories of the pasts or hopes for the future. An absolutely beautiful film.
BTS from Breaking Away
Breaking Away
Like most of my favorite films, my mom showed me Breaking Away a couple summers ago. Very similar in spirit and nature to Almost Famous, it’s a coming-of-age centered around dreams.
If you can’t tell, I appreciate films that have a quality of nostalgia to them. This is one of them. Kind of feels like a story your dad tells you about the childhood memories he has of bike-riding around his hometown with his friends.
Breaking Away Promotional Shoot
It carries powerful messages of perseverance and self-resilience, and it features one of my favorite film characters of all time, Dave Stohler. Despite being critically acclaimed and Oscar-winning, I feel like it’s often overlooked. It’s the perfect complement to Stand By Me, offering a different yet equally compelling take on friendship and growth, but with the energy and underdog story of Rocky. Breaking Away is such an uplifting watch; I really cannot recommend it enough.
Forgetting Sarah Marshall Promotional Shoot
Forgetting Sarah Marshall
Talk about needing someone to match their freak… this movie is perfect for that. These characters might as well have invented the very first freak-off (a term coined by the Gut Instinct team).
Still from Forgetting Sarah Marshall
Anywhere from a casual night in with friends to a double date, I’m recommending a watch of Forgetting Sarah Marshall. One of the funniest rom coms–and movies in general–I am genuinely such a fan.
Still from Forgetting Sarah Marshall
Sure, it’s a little strange, but that’s what makes it so funny. It’s also a total icebreaker for a group. I have a particular affection for the cast, especially Jason Segel, and I love The Muppets. So, I’m sorry, but I absolutely adore this film.
Still from My Best Friend’s Wedding
My Best Friend’s Wedding
Speaking of rom-coms, My Best Friend’s Wedding is an absolute must-watch.
Now, this is the vibe I bring to the function: a little messy, fully committed to the bit, and full of heartfelt confessions–but very fun! Perhaps it’s the original situationship movie, which may make it a horror film that serves almost as a cautionary tale. It certainly discourages any summer situationships
Still from My Best Friend’s Wedding
It also definitely highlights the beauty and necessity of true friendship.The story follows Julianne (Julia Roberts), who realizes she’s in love with her best friend Michael (Dermot Mulroney) just days before his wedding to another woman. Determined to win him back, Julianne embarks on a mission that leads to hilarious and heartwarming moments.
Still from My Best Friend’s Wedding
I love the film for so many reasons, but Julia Roberts’ charm and George (Rupert Everett)’s friendship stand out. George is Julianne’s rock throughout her antics, providing wisdom, humor, and unwavering support. Their dynamic is the heart of the film, emphasizing how true friendship can be a saving grace in the midst of chaos.
My Best Friend’s Wedding is just SO summer.
Purple Rain Promotional Shoot
Purple Rain
Saving the best for last: Purple Rain.
As famous and world-renowned as the record is, I feel like a lot of people don’t know about the film.
Still from Purple Rain
The soundtrack is legendary, and the storyline, while intense, is deeply compelling. Plus, the fashion and aesthetics are peak cool. Watching Prince and Apollonia navigate their tumultuous love story against the backdrop of Minneapolis’ music scene is something everyone should see at least once.
Still from Purple Rain
Not only is it a film that combines amazing music, style, and a bit of drama, it’s an iconic piece of pop culture that you’ll be glad you watched.
Still from Purple Rain
And if you needed any more convincing to watch it, I mean, it’s Prince. His electrifying performances and incredible music are reason enough.
This movie is a total experience. It captures the raw energy of the ’80s music scene and showcases Prince’s talent not just as a musician but as an actor. An absolute must-see.
