If you loved the emotional depth and coming-of-age storytelling in 'Summering' (2022), you're in for a treat! This article explores 10 similar movies and shows that capture the same nostalgic, heartfelt vibe. Whether you're looking for more tales of friendship, adventure, or self-discovery, these recommendations will keep you entertained.

The Goonies (1985)
Description: A group of kids go on a treasure hunt to save their neighborhood, filled with excitement, danger, and camaraderie. The film emphasizes the magic of childhood adventures and the bonds formed during them.
Fact: The underground pirate ship set was one of the largest ever built at the time. The film's iconic truffle shuffle was improvised by actor Jeff Cohen.


Stand by Me (1986)
Description: A coming-of-age story about a group of young boys embarking on an adventure that tests their friendship and forces them to confront the realities of growing up. The film captures the bittersweet nature of childhood and the transition into adolescence.
Fact: The film is based on Stephen King's novella 'The Body.' It was shot in Oregon, and the train trestle scene was filmed on a real, active railroad track.


My Girl (1991)
Description: A poignant story about an 11-year-old girl navigating the challenges of growing up, including first love and loss. The film captures the innocence and emotional turbulence of childhood.
Fact: The film's iconic funeral scene was shot in one take. The beehive scenes used real bees, and actor Anna Chlumsky had to undergo bee training to prepare for the role.


The Sandlot (1993)
Description: A nostalgic look at childhood summers spent playing baseball with friends, filled with humor, heart, and the challenges of growing up. The film captures the simplicity and wonder of youth.
Fact: The iconic 'You're killing me, Smalls!' line was ad-libbed by actor Patrick Renna. The film's setting was inspired by writer/director David Mickey Evans' own childhood experiences.


Now and Then (1995)
Description: A story about a group of girls navigating the complexities of friendship and adolescence during a transformative summer. The film blends humor, drama, and nostalgia to explore the bonds of childhood.
Fact: The film was originally titled 'The Gaslight Addition.' It features an all-female main cast, which was rare for coming-of-age films at the time.


Bridge to Terabithia (2007)
Description: A touching story about two children who create a magical kingdom to escape their everyday struggles. The film explores themes of friendship, imagination, and loss, capturing the emotional depth of childhood.
Fact: The film is based on Katherine Paterson's Newbery Medal-winning novel. The fantasy sequences were added to the film adaptation to visually represent the children's imaginations.


Super 8 (2011)
Description: A group of kids filming a movie witness a mysterious train crash, leading to an adventure that tests their courage and friendship. The film combines sci-fi elements with a heartfelt coming-of-age story.
Fact: The film pays homage to classic Amblin Entertainment movies of the 1980s. The kids' zombie movie within the film was actually shot by the young actors themselves.


Moonrise Kingdom (2012)
Description: A whimsical tale of young love and adventure, set against the backdrop of a nostalgic summer. The film's visual style and emotional tone evoke the innocence and intensity of childhood experiences.
Fact: The film's fictional island of New Penzance was inspired by real locations in Rhode Island. The soundtrack features a mix of classical music and original compositions by Alexandre Desplat.


The Kings of Summer (2013)
Description: Three teenage boys decide to spend their summer living in the woods, building a house and living off the land. The film explores themes of independence, friendship, and the desire to escape the constraints of adulthood.
Fact: The film was shot in Ohio, and many of the outdoor scenes were filmed in real forests. The script was inspired by the filmmakers' own childhood experiences of building forts in the woods.


The Florida Project (2017)
Description: A vibrant and heartbreaking look at childhood through the eyes of a young girl living in a budget motel near Disney World. The film contrasts the magic of childhood with the harsh realities of poverty.
Fact: The film was shot on location in real motels near Disney World. Many of the child actors' lines were improvised to capture the authenticity of their performances.
