A Midsummer Night's Movie List: For Pondering Under Moonlight
- jem
- Jul 10
- 7 min read
Updated: Aug 21
On a midsummer night, feeling a little sleepless, a little lonely...
The kind of night where the moonlight spills softly into your dimly lit room,
and all you crave is a summer movie.
So, I decided to curate a list for myself ; films that are quiet, deeply moving, and stir something profound within me.
But then it struck me: perhaps I'm not alone in this search.
Maybe there's someone else out there,
also yearning for a film
that perfectly matches this quiet, introspective mood, bathed in the same dim light.
That's why I'm here.
This is my carefully selected list of movies that will leave you staring at the ceiling,
pondering long after the credits roll.
I truly hope you find what you're looking for, too.
(This post may contain affiliate links.)
1) Where the Crawdads Sing (2022)
Synopsis:
Where the Crawdads Sing is an adaptation of Delia Owens' bestselling novel. The film follows the story of Kya Clark, who grew up isolated in the mysterious swamps of North Carolina. Having been abandoned by her family in a small town, Kya navigates a life deeply intertwined with nature, while simultaneously confronting the profound loneliness of being an outcast. When a man is murdered in town one day, suspicion immediately falls on Kya. The film masterfully blends a compelling murder investigation with the poignant drama of a woman living a life removed from society, deeply connected to the wilderness.
Themes: Loneliness, Nature, Love, Loss, Freedom
Why I Added It to This List:
This film recently captivated my attention, and its plot truly intrigued me. The fact that it's based on a bestselling novel especially piqued my interest, making me eager to read the book as well. I'm incredibly excited to delve deeper into both the film and the book!
The film's atmosphere is genuinely unique. The tranquil scenes set against the backdrop of marshes, the sea, and forests masterfully reflect Kya's profound inner loneliness. Beyond that, it also explores the theme of confronting small-town life and the struggle for self-defense. Watching this film, I anticipate embarking on not just a visual but also a deeply spiritual journey!
Film Runtime: 125 minutes
Eager to dive into the story's origins before watching the film? You can order the book right here. (This is an affiliate link.)
2) 13 Going on 30 (2004)
Synopsis:
Jenna Rink is a 13-year-old girl who dreams of being popular but is tired of high school drama. On her birthday, she closes her eyes, wishing to be "30, flirty, and thriving"... and wakes up the very next morning to find herself transformed into a stylish and confident 30-year-old woman working at a New York magazine. However, that 13-year-old girl still resides within her, and this seemingly enchanting world isn't as magical as it seems from the outside.
Themes: Time Travel, Identity, Growth, Innocence, Maturation
Why I Added It to This List:
When I was 13, I also always longed to "grow up." I yearned to reach my twenties and take control of everything. But as I grew older, I realized that we often cherish those childhood moments, those pure emotions, and little dreams.
When I saw this movie, a thought suddenly crossed my mind: "What would I truly do if I were 30 right now?"
That's precisely why I added it to this list. "I absolutely have to watch this!" I thought to myself.
Film Runtime: 98 minutes
3) 37 Seconds (2019)
Synopsis:
Yumi is a woman in her early 20s living with cerebral palsy. Despite the challenges she faces, her profound interest in art and her fervent desire to discover her own identity in life lead her on a truly unique journey. "37 Seconds" is a film that portrays Yumi's path of self-discovery, exploration, and the acceptance of her sexual identity, all while courageously confronting societal pressures.
Themes: Disability, Identity, Freedom, Desires, Society
Why I Added It to This List:
Yumi's journey is one of grappling not just with physical disabilities, but equally with profound emotional and social barriers. The film courageously and deeply explores how an individual can come to accept their own body, identity, and desires, while simultaneously showcasing the powerful impact of portraying someone who has been socially marginalized. It is, in many respects, a brave and truly enlightening production.
Film Runtime: 1 hour 55 minutes
4) Lost in Starlight (2025)
Synopsis:
The story centers on an expedition to Mars. After her mother vanishes during a mission to Mars, Nan-young dreams of becoming an astronaut to follow in her footsteps and find her. She is eventually selected as one of the astronauts for the Mars expedition. Along the way, she meets Jay, a musician, and a deep bond develops between them.
Themes: Loss, Loneliness, Inner Exploration, Love, Space, Dreams, Quest
Why I Added It to This List:
The film's visual aesthetic immediately captivated me. I love animation, and I found the animation in this film to be quite impressive. I was also deeply curious about its plot. I believe it will explore the story's themes by leveraging the freedom offered by animation, thus adding a unique dimension to the narrative.
Film Runtime: 1 hour 36 minutes
5) Ocean Waves (1993) – Studio Ghibli
Synopsis:
Ocean Waves is a lesser-known gem among Studio Ghibli's classics. The story unfolds as a young man, Taku, reminisces about a pivotal summer during his university years. He vividly recalls the faded presence of his once-loved Rikako and the unforgettable moments they shared. The film delves into themes of youth and love, but also poignantly examines lost memories, forgotten friendships, and emotions that evolve with time. It tells a story about confronting the past and coming to terms with the void that follows a summer now gone.
Set on Japan's beautiful coast, Ocean Waves immerses viewers in a nostalgic atmosphere. It explores the emotional complexities, friendships, and inner conflicts of young people as they navigate adolescence, focusing on their maturation processes and the inexorable passage of time.
Themes: Love, Youth, Friendship, Growth, The Passage of Time
Why I Added It to This List:
Even though Ocean Waves is a Studio Ghibli classic, likely familiar to many and perhaps already seen by most, I still haven't watched it! That's precisely why I felt compelled to add it to this list. I believe Ghibli's unparalleled animation style will have a profound impact on the story.
Film Runtime: 72 minutes
6) Love & Gelato (2022)
Synopsis:
Following her mother's death, Lina is reluctantly forced to move to Rome. There, thanks to a diary her mother left behind before her passing, Lina uncovers many secrets about her mother's youth. Amidst Rome's captivating atmosphere, Lina delves into her mother's past, while simultaneously discovering love and the true meaning of life herself. As she traces the footsteps of the past, a new love story also begins to blossom.
Themes: Love, Discovery, Echoes of the Past, Family Bonds, Self-Discovery, Romantic Relationships
Why I Added It to This List:
I believe this film, which sees Lina embarking on a journey to uncover her mother's mysterious past, will truly take you on an emotional adventure, set against the romantic backdrop of Rome. It promises a profound story about family bonds, loss, and rediscovery. I anticipate it will be a deeply peaceful yet emotionally potent film, especially perfect for watching during the warmth of summer.
Film Runtime: 1 hour 50 minutes
If you'd like to delve into the origins of this charming story, you can purchase the Love & Gelato novel here! (This is an affiliate link.)
There are a few productions hitting the big screen in the coming weeks that I'm already excited about, and I wanted to share them with you. Maybe they'll even make it to the top of your must-watch list!
7) Glass Heart (2025)
Release Date: July 31, 2025 (Netflix)
Synopsis:
Akane Saijo, a talented university student and drummer, is abruptly kicked out of her band. However, renowned musician Naoki Fujitani discovers her talent and invites her to join his newly formed band, TENBLANK.
Themes: Love, Music, Competition, Personal Growth, and Disappointment
Why I Added This Movie:
I have a great fondness for music and drama, so this film immediately captured my interest. I felt it would be a perfect addition to this list. I believe it stands out as one of the most intriguing films scheduled for release in the coming weeks.
8) Star People (2025)
Runtime: 1 hour 45 minutes (estimated)
Release Date: July 25, 2025 (in US theaters)
Synopsis:
Star People is a science fiction thriller inspired by the infamous 1997 Phoenix Lights incident. When a photographer receives a crucial clue that could finally shed light on a childhood UFO sighting, she embarks on a relentless quest to confront her past. However, a deadly heat wave and unexpected guests will threaten to thwart her obsessive search for the truth. The film masterfully explores themes of UFOs and the unknown through a woman's struggle to escape the dark shadows of her past and her relentless pursuit of the truth, all while creating an utterly immersive atmosphere.
Themes: Science Fiction, Thriller, UFOs, Mystery, Confronting the Past, Obsession, The Search for Truth, Paranormal Events
Why I Added It to This List:
Films that seamlessly blend science fiction and thriller elements, like this one, become especially captivating when watched in the stillness of the night. Its inspiration from a real-life event like the Phoenix Lights adds another compelling layer of intrigue and wonder. I believe it's a perfect fit for this list because it promises to evoke that deep curiosity and palpable suspense of the unknown.
I sincerely hope this list helps you discover films that truly resonate with your summer night spirit, ones you'll watch quietly and ponder long after the credits roll. Sometimes, all we truly need is a story that can sweep us away and deeply touch our hearts. Perhaps one of these films will become that very story for you.
And if you have any other films you'd add to this list—movies that make you think quietly, stare at the ceiling, and ponder on a summer night—please don't hesitate to share them with me in the comments below. I'm always open to new discoveries!
Wishing you many delightful moments!
P.S. You can find my review of a movie about gender roles here!
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