10 Must-Watch Movies & Shows to Match Your Mood This Summer
As the warm months speed past us, summer “break” can get busy! While I usually advocate for less screen time to maintain a healthy lifestyle, watching something indoors can be a great way to escape the heat.
Whether you're a fan of heartfelt dramas, gripping action, or light-hearted comedies, there's something on this list for everyone. I asked my team to share the shows and movies they love these days. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy these handpicked recommendations.
From Dr. Avanti
The Bear
This series is one of the best I've seen on TV... EVER. The writing is smart, the acting is incredible, and it's set in my hometown of Chicago. I love spotting local places I've grown up in... because I will always be a Chicago girl.
Genre: Drama
Where to Watch: Hulu
Also recommended by Ruth.
Bridgerton Season 2
As a first-generation South Asian, seeing a main character who looks like me was wonderful. Although there has been criticism of the show "glossing over" a very charged past between England and India, I appreciated the inclusion of many details of South Asian culture.
Genre: Romance
Where to Watch: Netflix
Also recommended by Ruth.
From Gabrielle
Inside Out 2
I saw Inside Out 2 in theaters last month, it’s definitely on my list! As part of the generation trying to re-parent (inspired by Dr. Becky + Big Little Feelings), it's refreshing to see a kids' movie that allows all feelings.
Genre: Family
Where to Watch: In Theaters
Also recommended by Ruth
Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga
I love Anya Taylor-Joy as the main character (she's such a badass in this movie!) and seeing her in a much different role from the Queen's Gambit.
Genre: Action
Where to Watch: Rent or Buy on Prime Video, YouTube, Apple TV
Also recommended by Jackie and Ruth
From Jackie
The Iron Claw
This movie is based on a real-life story of the Von Erich brothers in the competitive world of professional wrestling in the early 80's. There's sibling favoritism, hardships, and triumph! Oh... and a lot of heartache.
Genre: Sports Biography
Where to Watch: Hulu, Prime Video, YouTube, and more
Mad Max: Fury Road
This movie is set years after the collapse of civilization. There's a fortress hidden away in the desert full of enslaved apocalyptic survivors ruled by a tyrant. Full of high-speed chases and battles, your heart will be racing with how much action there is. Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga is a good prequel to the iconic movie!
Genre: Action
Where to Watch: Hulu, Prime Video, YouTube, and more
Also recommended by Ruth
This Fool
This is a comedy set in the working class of South Central Los Angeles. We follow the journey of 30-year-old Julio, who still lives at home with his mom and works at a gang rehabilitation non-profit called Hugs Not Thugs. As a Hispanic, it's refreshing to see shows representing my community where I can laugh along with them!
Genre: Comedy
Where to Watch: Hulu
From Ruth
The Uncanny Counter
In this Korean show, a group of grim reapers with special powers called "Counters" fight evil spirits to maintain the threshold between the living and the dead. I love the variety of ages in this team, including a middle-aged woman who is a total badass. This show made me laugh and cheer for their success.
Genre: Fantasy, Action
Where to Watch: Netflix
Heartstopper
This show is a coming-of-age queer romance set in an English school. I love this show so much. It’s tender and sweet without being saccharine. It gives us diverse, queer joy. It doesn't sensationalize trauma, but it doesn't ignore it, either. My only regret is that it didn't exist when I was a teenager.
Genre: Romance
Where to Watch: Netflix
Lovely Runner
After her celebrity crush dies tragically, a woman travels back in time to save his life. This show takes an unremarkable premise and polishes it to a high shine. It's vivid, heartfelt, and romantic. There’s a darker element underpinning the story, with an apparent serial killer at large. It’s one of the most popular K-Dramas of 2024.
Genre: Romance
Where to Watch: Viki, Netflix
I hope you find some time to relax and experience something new. Here's to a summer full of fun, inspiration, and great memories.
Be well,
Avanti Kumar-Singh, MD
P.S. Love to read? My team shares their recommendations for your summer reading list!
