The Kings of Summer

Synopsis

The Kings of Summer is a coming-of-age dramedy centered on three teenage boys—Joe, Patrick, and Biagio—who decide to escape their suburban lives and build a house in the woods during their summer vacation. Seeking independence and freedom, they embark on a journey of self-discovery, friendship, and rebellion against their parents' constraints. As the boys navigate the challenges of living off the grid, they encounter the realities of growing up, testing the limits of their bond and the ideals of youth. The film blends humor and heartfelt moments, capturing the bittersweet experience of adolescence in a fresh and authentic way.

Cast

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  Nick Robinson

  Joe Toy

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  Gabriel Basso

  Patrick Keenan

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  Moisés Arias

  Biaggio

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  Nick Offerman

  Frank Toy

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  Erin Moriarty

  Kelly

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  Craig Cackowski

  Mr. Larson

Reviews

The Kings of Summer received generally positive reviews from critics, with many praising its charm, performances, and unique take on teenage rebellion. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a 77% approval rating, with the consensus highlighting the film's quirky humor and heartfelt storytelling as its strengths. Critics applauded the naturalistic performances, particularly Nick Robinson's portrayal of Joe, which brought authenticity to the coming-of-age narrative. Metacritic assigns the film a score of 61/100, indicating generally favorable reviews; some critics noted that while the film occasionally falls into familiar tropes, it distinguishes itself through strong character development and its offbeat tone. IMDb users gave it a 7.1/10 rating, often describing it as a nostalgic and relatable tale of adolescence. Several reviewers noted the film's balance of comedy and drama, with Variety commenting, "The Kings of Summer is a refreshingly original take on teenage independence, buoyed by charismatic performances and a sharply written script." However, some felt the pacing was uneven or that the plot meandered at times. Overall, the movie is considered a heartfelt and entertaining depiction of youth and the desire for freedom.