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Let’s face it, this isn’t the summer we asked for. Most of us want to be relaxing at a beach resort or enjoying friends and family at a weekend BBQ. For most of us, summer is the best time of the year (not me; in my mind there are only two seasons-Christmas and almost Christmas). Nonetheless, I’d like to add a little joy to your summer by offering you these great movies to watch with your family. I will say that some should be classified as “after hours” movies, meaning they should be viewed by you and your spouse in those coveted hours when the kiddos are in bed. Most are classics that you’ve already seen, which is even more reason they’ll help put you back in the beach chairs, cookouts, and s’mores (s’mores of what) mood.
Independence Day
· Enjoy the nostalgia of 1996, the Summer Olympics, Pokeman, Tickle Me Elmo (gosh I loved 1996) and the greatest movie ever (by 1996 standards) to be released. This should be watched every July 3rd. It’s cheesy action, C+ adventure in which our hero, Lone Star, ahem the President, unites the entire world with the help of a computer nerd and Will Smith. Key point, when the movie is over, you still have the 4th of July to look forward to.
To Kill A Mocking Bird
· This is an all -time classic and a real tear-jerker. It’s is a perfect set-up for dads who want to feel good and be inspired to leave an honorable legacy for their children. “Stand Up, your father’s passing”. If you aren’t familiar with this quote and near tears reading it, then you definitely need to watch this movie. Keep an eye out for a young and upcoming Robert Duvall.
CaddyShack
· On a completely different end of the spectrum, Caddy Shack is by far the dirtiest movie on this list. It’s definitely not for kiddos (until they’re in college), so save it for the “after hours”. I remember in 9th grade, I was riding in the car with a friend as he was applying for a job at the local country club. When I asked him why he wanted to work there for the summer, he politely smiled and said “CaddyShack bro”. Please note, this is the funniest and most quotable movie on this list. 18 years ago I had my first official job interview, and I had the nerve to tell the recruiter, “If I don’t land this job, I still have spring break going for me, which is nice.” Again, if you don’t have a frame of reference, please do yourself a huge favor and watch this movie.
Sandlot
· No explanation needed. I try and position this movie towards the end of July. You’re at the mid point of summer, it’s getting hotter and you’re borderline wanting the heat to be over. The purpose of this movie is to keep you going until Fall. It has all the joys of being a kid, things you’ll remember “For-ev-ver”. On a separate note, there are two women in this world I would leave my wife for: Wendy Peffercorn and Pioneer Woman.
Transformers
· For all that it’s worth, my wife dislikes 96% of the movies and music I enjoy. However, the 2006 Transformers movie is surprisingly one that we both agree on. In fact, I’d say it’s even one of her all-time favorites. It’s funny, action is A +, and you actually believe Optimus Prime is going to save you. What could be better than having an alien robot that can turn into a semi-truck as your all-time protector? Much like our Independence Day and Sandlot selections, you get to feel like a little kid again for a blissful 144 minutes.
Point Break
· This is your last movie. Summer is now over and it’s time to turn the page, just like our hero Johnny Utah. What better way to see how you’ve grown this summer than compare yourself to a former Heisman-winning QB, strait-laced FBI agent from Ohio who transforms into an extreme surf hero over the course of one epic summer. Side note, do not compare yourself to Johnny Utah (you’ll never win). Just be proud that you grew and matured this summer, just like he did.
Honorable Mentions: What About Bob (wife’s favorite—"I’m sailing!”) and The Way Way Back (everyone will try to be the cool dad after this, plus anything with Nat Faxon is A+ material).
Enjoy! Vaya Con Dios!