From dramatic sitcoms to bizarre Sci-Fis and dog movies, our summer movie recommendations are built to keep you laughing, crying, and asking questions that have multiple answers. Here are 15 of the best summer movies and TV shows you can see this year.
We hope you have as much fun as we did watching these movies.
Never Have I Ever (Netflix)
This show follows the life of Devi Ramakrishnan, a first-generation Indian high schooler whose only goal is to improve her status in school; become popular and date the hottest jock in school. But reaching this goal proves difficult as she battles family, feelings and friends. If you are a fan of messy characters then you are going to fall head over heels in love with Devi and back her every decision.
Shogun Miniseries 2024
Based on the escapades of John Blackthorne in feudal Japan, Shogun paints a visually appealing story of war, deceit, and love. If you are a fan of rich and colourful Japanese stories, you will enjoy this series. Brace yourself for a rush of emotions and numerous questions about the necessity of the brutal Samurai code.
The Summer I Turned Pretty (Prime Video)
Based on the book with the same title by Jenny Han, the story centres on Lola Tung who is caught in a love triangle with two brothers. As the show progresses as she toggles the triangle, falls in love and gets heartbroken all in one perfect summer. Oh and might we add, like Devi, she makes bad decisions but they are thrilling to watch.
Gossip Girl (Netflix)
Oldie but Goldie, Gossip Girl is the perfect summer watch or rewatch. It focuses on a group of teenagers as they move from adolescence to adulthood in the upper east side. You are sure to meet spoilt teens, social climbers and lots of tabloid mess. You are sure to have fun with this one. XOXO, Gossip Girl.
Arthur the King
A dog is man’s best friend and that’s what this heart-swelling true life story shows us. What do we love more than a dog story? A real one where an athlete befriend a dog and his last power race of his career. Arthur saves his human friends from death in the jungle and is willing to risk it all to finish the race with them. Keep your tissues close because this movie will take you on a tension-filled emotional rollercoaster.
Bridgerton III (Netflix)
The show for the OG lovers and words of affirmation girlies, Bridgerton is based on Julia Quin’s bestselling franchise, Bridgerton. Set in the 1800s, each season gives us a glimpse at the life of one of the Bridgerton siblings as they stagger towards long lasting and fulfilling love. It is cheesy, cute and funny, thus making it a summer must watch.
Poor Things
A film about dark science, a mad doctor and his inquisitive creation. Godwin Baxter gives Bella a second chance at life with a successful brain transplant. Bella starts life afresh, a baby in a 20s woman’s body. Poor Things is unusual, bizarre and beyond what you are used to. Science, poverty, rage, sex fetish, and death make this movie and remarkable piece of art.
Young Sheldon (Netflix)
If you enjoyed Big Bang Theory, then this is for you. Young Sheldon takes us into the life of a younger Sheldon Cooper who has been promoted four grades. We watch him struggle to fit into his new world and family who he considers “unintellectual.” Sheldon is still as narcissistic as ever but we get to understand him better. Plus, you get to laugh till your stomach aches. A delightful way to spend the summer if you ask us.
Dune: Part Two
A perfect sequel to Dune: Part One and seamlessly orchestrated adaptation of Frank Herbert’s work, Dune: Part Two is everything you need in a Sci-Fi movie. It’s been some time the world has seen a better dramatic, visually appealing, and deep character evolution in a Sci-Fi movie since Interstellar. Grab your popcorns and have enjoy this masterpiece.
The Office (Prime Video|)
You’ve probably seen the memes or read the jokes online. Trust us, the rave is worth it. If you work in “corporate” you will totally get these characters who just want to do their jobs but their annoying boss, who quite frankly is a man child, doesn’t let them. Over a decade since the show ended and it is still talked about and referenced till today. This summer is the time to get in on the joke, don’t you think?
Jane The Virgin (Netflix)
Jane is a young woman waiting till marriage because she wants a better life than her single mother. However, her life gets turned inside out when she is artificially inseminated by mistake during one of her visits to the doctor. Her story gets worse when she discovers that the donor is her ex-boss and crush. The show promises you a sizzling love triangle and roaring laughter.
Kung Fu Panda 4
Yes! A new sequel of our favourite martial arts animation is here and gives us something refreshing to look at this summer 2024. Although, it’s nothing like its predecessors in terms of an emotional quest to find oneself, it is still a fun and action-packed thriller with a unique adventure and new enemies for Po to conquer. Kung Fu Panda 4 is the perfect movie to see with your family this summer 2024.
Victorious (Netflix)
I need to hear the Nickelodeon kids make some noise! This summer, drown in the feeling of nostalgia as you follow Tori Vega and the gang chase their dreams of becoming superstars in Hollywood. If you haven’t seen the show yet then there is no better time than now to see it!
Survival of the Thickest (Netflix)
This show follows Mavis Beaumont, a newly single Black plus sized woman. She is also a stylist trying to rebuild a career. Although the show is extremely witty, it serves as an empowering statement to plus size Black women who barely see themselves in the media. Comedy tangled with inspiration, yeah you need to add this to your list.
Best Friends in the World (YouTube)
Since its release, Best Friends in the World has fast become a fan fave. It is one of the few Nollywood teens shows out there. Best Friends in the World takes us into the lives of secondary school teenagers as they navigate growing up, school, love and family. With intriguing characters and striking comedy, Best Friends in the World proves it is THAT summer watch.
There you have it, all the best movies and shows to keep you entertained this summer. Don’t forget to tell us which ones you enjoyed the most and which ones you think should be on this list.
Happy watching !
By Praise Vandeh and Daniel Scribble