Telly 19th August 2025 by Stellar Magazine

All The Films You Need To Watch Before Summer Is Over

*adds to to watch list*

Endless days, salty hair and golden sunsets – summer is made for movies that capture the essence of it all. from cringe comedies to coming of age films and slasher horror there is a film for everyone this summer.

We have compiled a list of all the best movies to encapsulate that summer feeling just in time to binge before autumn rolls in – so best get watching!

The Sisterhood of the Travelling Pants (2000)

A magical pair of jeans, four best friends and a summer they won’t forget. The Sisterhood of the Travelling Pants is equal parts heart, humour and magic wrapped up in a bundle of 2000s nostalgia. Following the lives of four inseparable friends Bridget, Carmen, Lena and Tibby who are spending their first ever summer apart, this film shows that true bonds cannot be broken.

Bridget heads to soccer camp and has a questionable crush, Lena has a Romeo and Juliet romance in Greece, Carmen deals with family issues while visiting her Dad and Tibby makes an unlikely friend that will change her mindset forever. All tied together with a pair of magical jeans that somehow fit them all, the girls stay connected despite their time apart. A wholesome must watch that will have you thinking back to your own teenage summers fondly.

Dirty Dancing (1987)

A summer of dancing, rebellion and the most iconic lift caught on camera. When sheltered Baby returns to a family friendly resort with her folks she thinks she’s in for a boring few weeks of dinner parties, waltzing and sunbathing. But when she meets older dance instructor Johnny, her world turns into an epic forbidden romance as she learns how to dance and falls in love despite her parents disapproval.

Set against a backdrop of golden sunsets, floral sixties dresses, sweaty dance halls and lush forestry, Baby’s eyes are opened as she discovers new passions of music and movement. It’s a tale of first love, rule breaking and finding yourself, and it also happens to feature shirtless Patrick Swayze if you needed any more convincing.

Crazy Rich Asians (2018)

 

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Rachel accompanies her long term boyfriend Nick to Singapore for his best friend’s lavish Summer wedding. She is shocked to discover that Nick’s family is extremely wealthy and he is considered one of the country’s most eligible bachelors.

Rachel must learn to deal with the spotlight, fend off jealous socialites, bond with oddball relatives and worst of all – gain the respect of Nick’s disapproving mother. It’s a whirlwind of love, culture and beautiful expensive things set against a backdrop of blinding city lights and glittering skylines.

Little Miss Sunshine (2006)

 

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Not your average Summer road trip. When Olive dreams on winning a beauty pageant, her quirky family piles into a yellow Volkswagen van, each one carrying their own baggage as they head to California for the Little Miss Sunshine contest. Along the way, temper flare, patience is lost and secrets are shared.

Through the chaos, irritating quirks and unexpected detours, the dysfunctional family discovers the bonds that hold them together. From Golden California landscapes to the hectic Pageant stage, every frame exudes warmth and familiarity making this charming film into a must watch for Summer.

I Know What You Did Last Summer (1997)

 

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A summer of guilt, deathly accidents and chilling consequences. After a life changing accident, four high school friends attempt to bury the truth about the impact of a car crash they inadvertently caused but one year later it becomes clear that someone knows their secret.

A quiet coastal town turns into a nightmare as anonymous threats increase and paranoia spreads. It’s a thrilling tale of secrets, danger and dark truths and the ultimate summer slasher to dig into before the season ends, and before you watch the new remake.

Call Me By your Name (2017)

 

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Set in the golden hued landscapes and lush vineyards of Northern Italy, the film follows 17 year old Elio as he meets Oliver, His father’s  24 year old graduate assistant, who is staying with the family for the summer.

Told from Elio’s perspective the film captures his experience as he navigates first love and has a summer of  self discovery, longing and the timeless beauty of the Italian countryside. Complete with a great soundtrack and sun drenched visuals add this iconic film to your watchlist this summer.

The Parent Trap (1998)

 

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Mischief, plotting and double trouble chaos – this family favourite has it all. When twin sisters (both played by Lindsey Lohan) meet by chance at summer camp, they hatch a clever plan to swap places and reunite their divorced parents. From lakeside cabins to harmless pranks and wholesome moments that will warm your heart this is a feel-good Summer movie to watch when you want to be reminded of your own childhood.

Complete with sunny camp grounds, sibling love and the magic of family bonds rediscovered, The Parent Trap is a nostalgic film full of laughter and adventure – the perfect watch to end the summer.

From sun drenched visuals and first love tales to unbreakable friendships and unforgettable adventures – these films capture everything we love about summer.

As the season is coming to end all too fast, pop on some popcorn and gather your friends- it’s time for a summer movie marathon, bursting with nostalgia and sure to make you laugh, cry and miss the summers that have all ready gone by. Happy watching!

Words by Amy O’Connor