It's summer. It's hot. While that might be a fair percentage of the population's idea of a good time, it's not devoid of less serotonin-producing emotions. The heat brings out a lot in people - anger, sadness, unbearable horniness. In the spirit of finding a place to set these friction-filled feelings whilst I thank air conditioning for existing, I've thrown together a list of films I think capture all of the angst summer allows. A few of my favorites are here with some commentary, but you can also check out my full list on Letterboxd for even more (continuously growing, like the need for deodorant)...
Bonjour Tristesse
Rotting in the Sun
Next up is a gay little treat for anyone who's seen a crowd of beach partiers and wanted nothing more than to go the other direction and read a book. Sebastián Silva's 2023 film is certainly a comedy, but it's drenched in absurdist misery from the beginning and will leave you wondering how long it would take someone to find your body if you disappeared on vacation. Its ability to blend in a realistic vibe of social-media-age anxiety, as well as examine the classist nature of vacationing, bolsters its hilarity in an almost heartbreaking way. It sits right in the same zone as Triangle of Sadness and Ingrid Goes West, so if those excited you, there's no reason you shouldn't add this to your watchlist.
Body Heat
Kathleen Turner is a pro at turning up the heat in just about any film she graces with her presence, but this one breaks the thermometer. What's more tense & hot than Florida, plotting murder, and having a seedy affair fit for the cover of a pulp novel? Don't worry, I'll wait.
They Shoot Horses, Don't They?
Fair warning, this one might make you lose all faith in any happiness in the world no matter what time of year it is. They didn't call it the depression for nothing, babe. In 1969, I'd argue there were few historical dramas as steeped in bitter realism as this one - most of the time, we like to glean some shimmer of hope in our stories of the past, especially towards American audiences. This gave a middle finger to that, and it's a worthwhile watch for that reason alone. Pro-tip: Try dancing for the two hour and 9 minute runtime and you'll be sweating along with the characters...probably equally pissed off and sad, too, I'd reckon.
Anything that Moves
Oh, to be a Postmates-style sex worker with a hole in the back of one's head - the bliss, the fulfillment, the ability to definitely be used by others because you're too spaced out to realize what's happening... sigh. It's funny how many films on this list are comedies while still definitely not bringing the typical joy you'd associate with the genre. One of the reasons I was so excited to include this newly-released film from Vinegar Syndrome is because it so effortlessly blends genres that are in some crowds viewed as lowbrow (giallo, splatter, "the sex comedy") while delivering some hard-hitting thoughts on sex work if you pay attention & keep your ears and eyes open to catch them. It's also a visual feast with vibrant color palettes, incredibly gooey practical effects, and full frontal acting you rarely find people bold enough to commit to nowadays. If you're tired of watching the same "summer slashers" over and over again, this is a great one to lean into for something new.
The End
Burt Reynolds...you are a madman. This is truly one of the most bizarre films I've ever seen, and nothing I would have expected Bandit to direct. The acting is a mix of slapstick 3 Stooges facial expressions and the weird old man that spills all his problems on you at the dive bar. It's dark, it's plot is made up from out of pocket self-created issues, and Sally Field is simultaneously the sexiest and saddest woman alive within the confines of its hour and forty minute runtime. Oh, did I mention Burt wants to off himself and Dom DeLuise is intent on helping him achieve this? I'll tell ya...you probably won't see anything else like it.
A Tale of Sorrow and Sadness
Summer is an awesome time for sporting activities...also for being a professional sports star taken advantage of by those who are supposed to be lifting you up! Celebrity isn't all its cracked up to be in this Japanese story that begins with golf and descends into something so entirely not golf. I hate to give it away, but I'll say there's levels of camp at play with levels of terror that could only fit somewhere between Perfect Blue and Mulholland Drive, all drenched in 80's sportswear and bikinis.
Mermaid
While Body Heat captures a rose-tinted idea of Florida visually, Mermaid more so dives into its true aesthetics...and by that, I mean sun-beaten men in chlorine-scented pocket shirts chasing wildlife they have no business fucking with. In a weird way, this might be the most optimistic and light-hearted option on the list, despite its ability to showcase a deeply sad main character. It's delight gets an extra boost from disgusting practical effects and genuinely perfect line delivery from Johnny Pemberton.
The Green Ray
Do you recall those summer days where it feels like time has stopped, and not in the way you'd hoped it would? Staring off into the hot distance, heat lines rising from the surface of the earth, turning a sour realization in your mouth you can't quite swallow: everything is unsatisfying. When you're sold ideas of how perfect holidays and vacations are supposed to be, it's easy to feel cheated if you can't seem to align yourself on a path to experience the cliche. It's made even worse when it seems like every pal you have is paired off, and every potential beau you meet is off-putting in some form or fashion. If any of this resonates with you...chances are, this is one you'd like to see.
I Am Love
Closing out my recommendations is one of two films featured on the wider Letterboxd list by Luca Guadagnino, someone I would argue understands the excitement and costs associated with pursuing heat in ones life. They warn even those with the thickest skin that sunscreen is needed to prevent burns. Similarly, they warn grown women to stay on courses outlined for them by societal stereotypes, lest they or their family get hurt. Guadagnino explores all the blood, sweat, and tears around a woman reaching to connect with something outside of their wife-and-motherdom. This story told through breathtaking shots that mimic too-bright days and musical swells that invoke classic drama a-la Gone with the Wind will leave you with your jaw on the floor, I guarantee it.
So there you have it, my Bummer Summer film recommendations - and hey, just 'cause you're indoors watching these doesn't mean you can just forget to drink water. Stay hydrated, especially after crying...which, you might.
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Have a Nice Day,
Watch Something Good!