Monster Summer

Mel Gibson and Mason Thames deliver the best acting performances. However, this does play out like a long episode of the 90s hit show and books Goosebumps. I'm not saying that's a bad thing, the movie just has its weaknesses. Adults can enjoy this movie but they will see the flaws in the writing and some of the supporting casts acting. But it seems the target audience is probably middle school and elementary school. That's totally fine. The movie has a great twist and is scary enough for that age group. If your preteen is looking for there first Halloween themed movie, this is a great one to start with.

Monster Summer is like The Sandlot kids taking on the supernatural. It serves as a great introduction to horror films (and Mel Gibson) for kids and preteens.

Even if the story is familiar, I really enjoyed it. It isn't made for someone my age, but the writing and direction feels very Spielbergian. The characters are way above average for a family movie.

Also, there's a twist I can't believe I didn't see coming. If I were a kid, I would've called it one of my favorite movies because I always found Are You Afraid of the Dark? And Goosebumps to be lacking the bite that this movie has.

Spooky season popcorn fun for all.

Monster Summer is a nostalgic throwback to the classic horror films of the 90s, blending coming-of-age drama with supernatural thrills. Director David Henrie masterfully captures the essence of a summer gone wrong, injecting a healthy dose of creature feature fun.

The film follows Noah and his friends as they navigate the challenges of adolescence while confronting a monstrous threat lurking beneath the surface of their idyllic island paradise. Mel Gibson delivers a solid performance as the grizzled detective who guides the young protagonists on their perilous journey. The young actors, Mason Thames and Julian Lerner, bring energy and authenticity to their roles, making their characters both relatable and endearing.

While the plot may not break new ground, if I were a teenager in the 90s and early 2000's, Monster Summer would have been an instant classic. It's a nostalgic trip down memory lane for older viewers and a thrilling introduction to horror for a new generation.

I was surprised with some of the really negative reviews and remarks of, 'for kids only'.

I viewed the trailer for this movie and I wasn't sure if it was a horror flick or a "scary" kids movie. I really appreciate Mel Gibson's work and I love horror flicks.

I never watched Sandlot, but I know the guy in it is the ref in Monster Summer. I kept thinking, it's similar to Sandlot, only because he's in it.

I would say this movie gave me vibes of Monster Squad and Stranger Things. I didn't think of it, but a few mention Goonies (and I agree).

This movie also reminded me of the Mel Gibson flick where he's a burned victim and befriends a younger boy (The Man Without a Face). A great movie that showcases a heartwarming and unexpected friendship with no age boundaries.

Monster Squad has evil, but it was a fun flick with meaning. Monster Summer has evil, kids have died (but in the past and this is not shown). Yet it has an inspiring creative lead young boy. Who has a strong friendship with a talented young athlete. There's jokes, creativity, kids being kids, and kids experiencing something scary and acting like a type of zombie afterwards. The adults totally miss what's actually going on, except Mel Gibson's character. His character is very interesting. The lead young writer teams up to find and stop whoever is doing bad things to these children.

I enjoyed it!

As much as I'm a fan of good witches like Sabrina or the sisters from Charmed, sometimes it's nice to have a witch just be evil. I also like that this movie takes itself seriously. There is some light jokes but it doesn't take away from the danger they are facing.

While the pacing could be better, the story was well written and acted, particularly Mason Thames, who plays the main guy, and Mel Gibson. The characters feel believable and they get some development and a few heartfelt moments. One might compare it to Are You Afraid Of The Dark? In that way. The ending was fun and wrapped things up nicely.