Directed by François Simard [Other horror films: N/A], Anouk Whissell [Other horror films: N/A] & Yoann-Karl Whissell [Other horror films: N/A]
This is a movie that I’m not even going to try and write a lengthy take on – it originally blew me away entirely, and if you’ve a thing for movie’s harking back to the 1980’s, I’d highly recommend giving this one a look. With a second viewing, it’s not quite as fresh, but still very much worth a look.
With a story somewhat similar to the Rear Window/Disturbia-type plot, and with the vibe of Stranger Things (I’ve seen only the first episode, but the similar vibe is definitely here), Summer of 84 really had a lot of talent behind it, from cinematography to the absolutely masterful soundtrack, and amazing handle on suspense.
It is true that the story may not lead you to any really big surprises, but it does a moderately decent job at keeping you guessing at times, and the way they handle what they have is beyond enjoyable. That soundtrack alone had me excited every time the music popped up.
Plenty of good performances from all the main actors and actresses involved, from the four main kids (Graham Verchere, Judah Lewis, Caleb Emery, and Cory Gruter-Andrew) to the other characters of import (the beautiful Tiere Skovbye and seemingly-shifty Rich Sommer). I didn’t have a single complaint about any of the acting here, and I thought the four main boys all complimented each other nicely.
As said, the story itself may not seem a thrill ride, but the suspense in this movie is so damn heavy, especially toward the end. Some may argue the last ten minutes or so were unnecessary, but I thought it tacked on something quite memorable, and without it, I feel the movie wouldn’t feel near as complete.
I honestly don’t have many bad things to say about the film at all. Sure, it feels a lot more like a coming-of-age film than a horror movie at times, but other great movies, including the somewhat similar The Girl Next Door (2007), had very much the same feel. Throw in the 80’s vibe this film captured magnificently, and you have a winner. It’s far from the greatest movie ever made, despite the fact that I really loved it when I first saw it, but again, despite it not being as memorable as one might hope, I think it’s worth the watch.
8/10
This was on the 12th episode of Fight Evil’s podcast, so if you care to, listen to Chucky (@ChuckyFE) and I discuss it.
Jiggy's Horror Corner 
2 thoughts on “Summer of 84 (2018)”