List
Summer Viewing: Film and TV
Whether you are in the mood for pure escapism or want to do some armchair traveling, we suggest choosing from this wide selection of films and TV.
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Bergman Island
2023Get this itemI loved this sly and enigmatic film by the French filmmaker Mia Hanson-Love, which has a lot more going on than first meets the eye. It’s simultaneously a breezy homage to Ingmar Bergman, a satisfying film within a film, and a winking autobiographical story with more than a few layers of fiction thrown in for good measure. Suggested by Chris.
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Strange World
2023Get this itemIn this vibrant, lively, and joyfully diverse animated feature movie, a family of explorers must overcome their differences as they go on an expedition into unknown territory to save the planet. It has a Journey to the Center of the Earth vibe in the best sort of way. Suggested by Sharon.
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Father of the Bride
2022Get this itemA remake of the original Father of the Bride but with a Latine twist that stands on its own. Latine culture, specifically Cuban and Mexican, is organically incorporated in the story. It is a blast to see Gloria Estefan and Andy Garcia on the screen as a couple with their individual storyline in addition to the bride's story. Suggested by Rummanah.
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Around the World in 80 Days
2022Get this itemThis light-hearted watch features a clever adventure and a phenomenal performance from David Tennant and the supporting cast. The chemistry between the three protagonists is entertaining, and the locations are all incredibly striking. Suggested by Amber.
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Carmen
2022Get this itemFollowing tradition, Carmen worked as the unpaid caregiver for her older brother, the local priest, since she was 16. When he dies suddenly Carmen must leave the rectory, but what are her options at age 50? I was all in for this journey toward happiness, discovery, and agency, with a touch of magic realism. Set in Malta in the 1980s, it’s inspired by true events. Suggested by Sharon.
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Monsoon
2021Get this itemIndependent writer/director Hong Khaou crafted this movie from some of his own experiences, delving into such themes as cultural identity, family, loneliness, and connectedness. I liked the quiet, thoughtful observations throughout, the authenticity of the storyline, and the stunning location shots. Suggested by Sharon.
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Best Summer Ever
2021Get this itemThough it takes a few cues from Grease and Footloose this musical is not a copycat. It’s fresh, funny, and delightfully irresistible. About half the lead actors (as well as several extras and those doing behind the scenes jobs) have disabilities as part of their identity and not a plot point. Inclusivity in filmmaking works. Suggested by Sharon.
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The Woman King
2022Get this itemGina Prince-Bythewood directs the heck out of this women-led historical fiction movie about the Agojie, an all-female military unit in the 1820s that guarded the West African kingdom of Dahomey. The incomparable Viola Davis transformed herself to become General Nanisca, and her co-leads Thuso Mbedu, Lashana Lynch, and Sheila Atim all deserve much acclaim. Suggested by Sharon and Rummanah.
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India Sweets and Spices
2022Get this itemI enjoyed this indie dramedy that focuses on the complexities of family dynamics, adhering to social expectations, and being true to yourself. Suggested by Rummanah.
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Puss in Boots: The Last Wish
2023Get this itemThe long-awaited sequel to Puss in Boots delivers creative, enjoyable storytelling, and it’s sure to please viewers of all ages. The animation is gorgeous, and the knockout voice cast includes Antonio Banderas, Salma Hayek Pinaultfor, and Harvey Guillén. It rightfully received an Oscar nomination for Best Animated Feature Film. Suggested by Sharon.
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Ticket to Paradise
2022Get this itemA divorced couple, who can’t stand one another, call a truce while they travel to Bali and conspire to sabotage their daughter's whirlwind wedding. Sparks fly and hilarity ensues in this rom/com getaway. Suggested by Sharon.
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Alamar
2010Get this itemTo the sea! Plan your nature film night and discussion now. In this beautifully photographed semi-documentary, a father takes his 5-year-old son on a two week voyage to explore the Banco Chinchorro coral reef and to teach him about his Mayan roots. Another older title, it still qualifies as an under-the-radar gem. Suggested by Sharon.
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My Donkey, My Lover & I
2022Get this itemThe title kind of says it all, and I couldn’t stop chuckling. A schoolteacher who is having an affair with the father of one of her pupils makes hasty plans to follow his family on a weeklong hike through Cévennes National Park. There’s a lot wrong with that vacation scenario, and Patrick, her often opinionated donkey, steps in as a sort of therapist. Suggested by Sharon.
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Weathering with You
2020Get this itemThis breathtakingly beautiful title had me hooked from the beginning. The storytelling is immersive, and the soundtrack is one of the best I've heard. Suggested by Amber.
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Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara
2011Get this itemA fun mashup of romantic comedy and travelog of Europe with a great cast of actors who have natural onscreen chemistry. Suggested by Rummanah.
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Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris
2022Get this itemIn the 1950s, a widowed London housekeeper falls in love with a Christian Dior gown and becomes intent on purchasing a couture dress from the House of Dior. She's almost turned away on the spot; however, her optimistic, down-to-earth personality inspires everyone she meets and leads to some unexpected outcomes. We smiled the entire time while watching this charming, heartwarming, and uplifting movie. Suggested by Sharon and Rummanah.
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The Lost City
2022Get this itemWe had a blast watching this action comedy. Spoofing action films (especially Romancing the Stone) and romance novels worked really well in the plot. Plus, there’s the great on-screen chemistry between Sandra Bullock and Channing Tatum. Suggested by Lynnanne, Rummanah, and Sharon.
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Uncharted
2022Get this itemA fun, popcorn movie that I enjoyed, though I had no prior knowledge of the popular video game. I loved the comradery and humor between the leads Tom Holland and Mark Wahlberg. Suggested by Rummanah.
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The Mallorca Files: Series One
2021Get this itemThere’s some slow-burn chemistry going on between this detective duo. In addition, the location shots are wonderful. Enjoy the armchair travel; the mystery binge is on us. Suggested by Sharon and Rummanah.
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Ride Your Wave
2020Get this itemThis anime managed to break my heart and make me smile. The artistry is so lovely and interesting. Suggested by Sharon.
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Mr. Malcolm's List
2022Get this itemIt’s a PG-rated Bridgerton and Jane Austen novel rolled into a rom-com period piece with modern sensibilities. Suggested by Sharon and Rummanah.
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Bend It Like Beckham
2003Get this itemFor the love of soccer and following your dream. Count this as a throwback view, with great performances from Parminder Nagra and Keira Knightley. Suggested by Sharon and Rummanah.
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Jazz on a Summer's Day
2021Get this itemLike the title says, this one of the all-time classic concert/documentary films and one I've happily watched several times. Filmed at Newport Jazz Festival in Rhode Island in July 1958, this is the next best thing to being there, with one great musician after another (Thelonious Monk, Louis Armstrong, Mahalia Jackson, Dinah Washington) taking to the intimate summer stage. Pure summer vibes. Suggested by Chris.
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