American Summer movie review by Movie Review Mom

MOVIE TITLE: American Summer

This charming, coming-of-age family flick releases on September 4, 2026.

RATING: PG (for some suggestive material, language, and brief smoking)

LENGTH: 1 hour, 23 minutes

Movie Review Mom GRADE: B

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IN A NUTSHELL:

An adult Mikey reminisces about an unforgettable coming-of-age summer spent falling in love with baseball, navigating first love with a girl named Kelly, and leaning on lifelong friendships, all while dealing with the anxiety of his father being missing overseas.

Directed by Michael W. Gray, this nostalgic family comedy stars Steve Guttenberg, Christie Brinkley, Logan Evan Gray, and Dan Lauria. Michael Gray dedicated the film to his parents, Miriam and Bob Gray. He co-wrote the film with Jennifer B. White and Marc Prey.

TIPS FOR PARENTS:

Language: Mild language scattered throughout, mostly fitting for a family drama. There are, however, a few crude comments.
Substance Use: Brief depictions of smoking.
Sensitivities: Themes involving a missing parent overseas and minor family dysfunction.
Safe and sweet overall for most middle-schoolers and up.

THEMES:

First love and adolescent crushes
Nostalgia and the power of childhood memories
Family resilience during tough, uncertain times
The unifying power of sports and friendship

THINGS I LIKED:

The vintage 80s/90s nostalgia vibe at the very beginning of the rolling credits brings a warm, sentimental feel that parents and grandparents will really appreciate and relate to.
Steve Guttenberg and Christie Brinkley are a fun addition to the cast that provide plenty of charm.
Logan Evan Gray and Mia Talerico have wonderful chemistry as young Mikey and young Kelly.
Lots of bro energy with the young teens.
Dan Lauria delivers his signature comforting “grandpa” energy, which anchors the emotional heart of the film.
At 83 minutes, it moves at a breezy, easy-to-watch pace.
Lots of cheesy humor and goofy sound effects.
We see plenty of flags and americana.

THINGS I DIDN’T LIKE:

The plot relies on pretty familiar coming-of-age movie tropes, so don’t expect many big surprises.
The subplot about Mikey’s dad being missing feels a bit heavy compared to the lighter baseball scenes, creating an awkward shift in tone at times.
It’s a B movie with some amateur moments, but the older crowd will find it refreshing.

FUNNY LINES:

“If you hit the ball any harder, Mikey, we’re going to need to send a search party to the next county!”
“Ah, young love… 10% romance and 90% running away because you don’t know what to say.”

INTERESTING LINES:

“Some summers just pass by, but others stay with you for the rest of your life.”
“Baseball isn’t just about winning the game; it’s about holding on when everything else feels uncertain.”

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Coming soon!

Check out this clip to get a taste of the nostalgic beachside adventures in An American Summer – YouTube. This trailer offers a glimpse into the classic coming-of-age storytelling and throwback setting that fans of summer retro films will love!