Summer of 69

Despite the film's initial emphasis on its raunchy aspects in both the trailer and marketing materials. It pleasantly surprises with its unexpected depth and heartfelt storytelling.

Yes, it's based on a stripper (Chloe Fineman), who surprisingly keeps her clothes on for the entire film. She's a character who has chosen this profession not out of necessity, but as a means of empowerment and self-expression. She is co-starred by a naive, almost Bambi-like character (Sam Morelos) who so desperately wants to 69 her high school crush but never manages more than a kiss. Abby, the high school girl, comes from a repressive family, which has distorted her views on sexuality and relationships.

Similar to Fast Times, this film delves into the complexities of sex and relationships from a teenage girl's perspective. However, it distinguishes itself by offering a more honest and enlightening exploration of sex, dating, boundaries, and consent.

Whilst the film's plot is driven by Abby's (Sam Morelos) desire to 69 her crush, its heart lies in the chemistry built between Abby and Santa Monica (Chloe Fineman). The two woman's unassuming meeting sets in motion a series of events that will alter their lives.

For Abby, who has come from a repressive family, she now has the opportunity to speak to an older woman to help her understand her sexuality and what it means to be a woman. Most importantly and ironically, it is a stripper, Santa Monica, that teaches her sex is not just for a man's pleasure and is not something that needs to be rushed into, and that who you are vulnerable with matters.

For Santa Monica, her desire to "be something" forces her to be vulnerable with another person, seemingly for the first time in her life. This vulnerability prompts deep reflection on accepting who she is and not being ashamed of the choices she has made in her life.

While not perfect and with an obligatory cheesy ending, this film offers a great insight into the pressures faced by oversexualised youth. It does not condone or glorify this trend, but rather presents a nuanced exploration of the factors that contribute to it and its impact on young people. However, at its core, it conveys a powerful message that emphasises love and consent, advocating for a healthier and more respectful approach to sexuality.

I was really skeptical coming into this, being the ALPHA I think I am. You know, the red meat, growling, snarling Wolf. I'd chase down overly-showy, and timid women like this. I'm an ANIMAL! They WILL succumb to my will!

But then, my favorite funny person, from that limp-waisted, liberal SNL decides to star in it, and coax me into believing that I (her number 1fan [thanks, Annie Wilkes]) was going to see my dream dance around nekkid.

I sat through one hour and forty minutes, and what the .... Blank ... where were the boobies (No this isn't a size joke. Her character was a stripper, and I've been to enough bachelor parties to know I should see boobies!)

What, you think you can get away with not showing boobies because you make us laugh from the belly in a super identifiable way?

Lots of snark. Loved the movie, loved the cameos, Fibeman continues to be my fave SNL cast member, and she showed she is ready for next, I think.

8/10 - great step into the next level for Fineman. I was skeptical at first, but she brought everything together at the end and I was sold and invested in her arc. The high school girl gave me shades of the 8th grade in-kids, Mitch Kramer and Sabrina Davis, from Dazed and Confused. Solid effort, and it made me laugh out loud, literally.

A geeky, inexperienced, and not-so-confident girl hires a stripper to coach her on how to land a guy by performing "69".

The sort of film that rarely works on paper, but delivers in execution thanks to its sincere tone and the charm of its leading actresses! With a great budding friendship between a shy (but quite determined) teen and her bold, quick-witted and sassy mentor. Their dynamic is sweet, funny, and easily the highlight of the movie.

That said.. the film doesn't leave much of a lasting impression. No standout moments that demand a rewatch, subplots that come off as checklist items to fill in space (imagination "problems", the mascot character, highschool reunion, etc) rather than meaningful additions, a third act that stumbles and drags its feet.. With one side of its conclusion that doesn't satisfy, and instead feels rushed and undercooked.

Still, despite its flaws, the movie remains enjoyable and lightheartedly-endearing in a way that makes it easy to forgive some of its crappier moments! And the leads are very good on their roles.

One of those films that I suspect suffers from not having an obvious niche. It's a classic coming of age / sex comedy, but firmly aimed at girls not boys and with an adult sensibility (adult in the sense of grown up, not a euphemism for porn).

It's a much better film than its rating suggests. The leads are superb and superbly well cast. Some of the side characters are a bit too two dimensional, but no more than lots of films with far bigger budgets. The writing is sharp, with the right dose of raunch without going over the top. It is also well acted.

It also avoids the modern tick box tropes (one person of colour: tick; one person who is non-binary: tick; etc).

Chloe Fineman delivers a standout performance as Santa Monica, an exotic dancer who helps high school senior Abby Flores, played by Sam Morelos, navigate her romantic endeavors. Fineman's portrayal is particularly notable for an impressive and athletic striptease scene set to Peaches' 2006 hit "Boys Wanna Be Her," showcasing her remarkable strength, flexibility, and control. Her performance has been highlighted as a pivotal moment in the film, leaving a lasting impression on both the audience and Abby's character.

Bonus for 'Grey's Anatomy' Fans:

Adding to the film's appeal, Jerrika Hinton, known for her role as Dr. Stephanie Edwards on "Grey's Anatomy," appears in "Summer of 69." Her presence adds a familiar face for fans of the long-running medical drama.

Overall Assessment:

While "Summer of 69" offers a fresh take on the teen sex comedy genre with strong performances, especially from Fineman, its reception suggests it's more of a solid entry than a perfect film. Given the mixed reviews, a 10 out of 10 rating might be generous. However, if you're a fan of quirky coming-of-age stories with a blend of humor and heart, it could be a worthwhile watch.