PERFORMING ARTS

Summer Movies: 30 Sun-Drenched Classics

by John Malahy
Running Pr.: Perseus. (Turner Classic Movies). May 2021. 208p. ISBN 9780762499298. $24. FILM
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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.
Reviewed by Rosellen Brewer, Sno-Isle Libs., Marysville, WA , Apr 02, 2021
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