DVD Corner's blog

Turner Classic Movies: Summer Movies- 30 Sun-Drenched Classics Book Review

“Turner Classic Movies: Summer Movies- 30 Sun-Drenched Classics” is the perfect book for movie fans this summer.

No, this is not a book about summer blockbusters. Instead, it’s about movies set in the summer. All genres are covered here whether it be noir (“Key Largo”), suspense (“Rear Window”), comedy (“Caddyshack”), romance (“Before Sunrise”), drama (“Do The Right Thing”), musicals (“The Music Man”) or a horror movie set in the summer that just happened to create the summer blockbuster season with “Jaws.” Each film entry is accompanied by film credits, photos and or poster/lobby card art, a vacation inspiration blurb that touches on locations featured in the film ala the Iowa State Fair in “State Fair,” a double feature suggestion (which basically means there’s 60 movies featured), and a written piece that covers the film’s history, plot, cast, directors, and so on. The book also includes a foreword by legendary film critic Leonard Maltin, an intro by author John Malahy, a bibliography, index and acknowledgments. 

As with past TCM book releases, “Summer Movies” is another must own book for film buffs or anyone looking for some new recommendations on what to watch this summer. Whether you’re in the mood for something featuring scorching heat, summer love, vacations, parties, or something a bit more sinister, there’s something for every mood here. On top of that, you get to learn so much about each entry whether it be about the history of the AIP beach party films,“Moonrise Kingdom” being shot on 16mm, David Lean’s direction on “Summertime,” and some background on director Jacques Tati.

While there are a few great obvious picks listed like some of the above mentioned titles, there are a number of welcomed deep cuts here like the underrated “Lonesome,” “Moon Over Miami” (which I’ll have to check out myself) and even Bergman’s “Smiles Of A Summer Night.” The double feature suggestions are even more compelling as you get lesser known suggestions like the hilarious silent comedy “Speedy” along with titles like “The Caddy” and “Out Of The Blue.”

As with every TCM book, not everything can be included, but there are some notable omissions here like “The Sandlot,” “Friday The 13th” (not enough summer camp movie mentions in this book), and “American Graffiti.” Maybe Malahy is saving those for a sequel?

July 17, 2021 - Posted by nicklyons1 | Book review | Jaws, Summer Movies, Summer Movies Book Review, TCM, TCM Books, Turner Classic Movies: Summer Movies- 30 Sun-Drenched Classics Book Review