Sweltering heat and crowded beaches can make summer not as fun as you'd hoped. But thankfully, you can always go to the cinema to sit back, relax, and cool off while watching the latest hit movies.
For those of you who prefer to spend quality time at home with your loved ones, no sweat! Here's a list of the 20 best summer movies (in no particular order) to go along with your cold sweet tea and backyard grilled burger summer nights. Tip: throw in some ice cream for an appropriate summer dessert.
Jaws
The classic film will either make you want to become a marine biologist or it will scare you right out of the water.
Dawn of the Planet of the Apes
This prequel to the classic Planet of the Apes movies is a good film to watch while hanging out with friends and sipping some drinks.
Gladiator
A movie that will inspire you to try some sportier summer activities to get in shape — in case you need to defend yourself in an arena, of course.
Raiders of the Lost Ark
Sand, sun, adventure and Harrison Ford... enough said.
National Lampoon's Vacation
What better way to spend your summer vacation than with the ultimate vacation family!
I Know What You Did Last Summer
This movie offers a different kind of summer thrill — and a good excuse to cuddle close with that special someone.
Blue Crush
A film with girls kicking ass while surfing, it might just inspire you to go to the beach and try riding the waves yourself.
Dirty Dancing
Steamy dance steps and Patrick Swayze's hips moving to the beat... perfection! Plus, now you'll understand the fuss about the song "(I've Had) The Time of my Life."
Moulin Rouge
Even if you're not a fan of musicals, Baz Luhrmann's magnum opus is a feast for the eyes and the ears — and it is definitely worth watching one fun and sunny summer day.
Splash
Because who wouldn't want to splash like a mermaid under the summer sun?
Jurassic Park
Adventure, thrills and scary moments – plus an array of dinosaurs – spell summer blockbuster and summer classic.
Finding Nemo
Even if life gets challenging, "just keep swimming."
E.T.
Heart-tugging film that brings back our childhood sense of wonder and exploration.
Eurotrip
Experiencing a new culture without breaking the bank or your budget.
Alien
Still the best looking alien thus far. Oh, Ripley, how we miss you!
Star Wars
The film that started the franchise and the hype. Yes, the first Star Wars movie was released in 1977!
Guardians of the Galaxy
Because Star-Lord and his gang are just that cool — plus, how can you not like Groot?
Unforgiven
It may be a classic cowboy movie, but Clint Eastwood and his stoic stare can keep you captivated until the end.
Men in Black
Still funny even after the 100th time you watch it.
Friday the 13th
Another summer classic sure to scare and thrill you.
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