On Saturday, June 20, the David Geffen Theater at the Academy Museum of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences was packed to the brim with die-hard fans and newbies as the 1976 film Car Wash, directed by Michael Schultz, in celebration of its 50th anniversary. The event was composed of a short discussion, moderated by University of Chicago Professor Jacqueline Stewart, with Schultz and some of the Car Wash cast members including Bill Duke, Antonio Fargas, Henry Kingi, Melanie Mayron, Garrett Morris, and Pepe Serna. Shortly after, the screening of the film itself began. The energy in the room was immediately buzzing as the electric beat of the opening song "Car Wash" began to play. The resounding thud of over 100 hands clapping in tandem as everyone sang, "Working at the car wash…" under their breath.
The utter enjoyment inspired from this "old"film was absolutely parallel to that of any film made in the modern day. No difference was apparent — at least not to the viewers inside that packed theater. Considering that one of the truest loves of Gen-Z is that of the analogue or "vintage" era, it is no big surprise that this viewing of Car Wash has inspired a unique list of 5 vintage films that absolutely scream Summertime!
Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (1986)
Starting off strong with the most recent film on this list, John Hughes's Ferris Bueller’s Day Off is the perfect film for anyone looking to have a Summer filled with shenanigans, pranks, and new memories. Even though this film is 40 years old, spoilers will be kept in mind. To keep it brief, this story follows Ferris Bueller (Matthew Broderick) as he tricks his parents into letting him skip a day of school. This charismatic high school senior then convinces his best friend and girlfriend to take a prized Ferrari into downtown Chicago for an epic day of freedom! The film is hilarious and frankly a great choice for any person looking to bust out their projector and have a backyard screening on a cool Summer night. (Stream on Paramount+ and Pluto TV)
Roman Holiday (1953)
Travel abroad with William Wyler’s Roman Holiday. Released in 1953, this film delves into the tense and passionate romance and adventure between a European princess Anne (Audrey Hepburn) and American reporter Joe (Gregory Peck). Even if you can’t travel the globe this Summer, the emphasis on sightseeing in this masterpiece of a film will make you feel as if you’ve been transported to Rome, running around with Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck, stirring up trouble. A movie so great that’ll foster up an itch for a drive around town with your windows down to really enjoy that Summer breeze. (Stream on YouTube)
Grease (1978)
Summer and this film go together like chang-chang, changity-chang shoo-bop! This list simply couldn’t be complete without a movie-musical! Grease follows Sandy Olsson (Olivia Newton-John) as she reunites with a new version of her Summer fling, Danny Zuko (John Travolta), at her new high school and her attempts to win back his heart. One of the more known films on this list, this musical has all the things you need for a fun Summer screening party. Get up and sing along to the many sensational musical numbers in this 1970s hit! (Stream on Paramount+ and Pluto TV)
Talk of the Town (1942)
The definition of "an oldie but a goodie"! Talk of the Town is the oldest film on this list, made in 1942 and directed by George Stevens. Starring Cary Grant, Jean Arthur, and Ronald Colman, this motion picture follows the life of Leopold Dilg after he is wrongfully convicted of arson and manages to escape from prison. While on the lam, he reunites with Nora, an old school flame, and befriends Professor Lightcap, a writer renting a room in Nora’s home. For any fans of the interesting relationship dynamic in Luca Guadagnino’s Challengers, you will definitely like the chemistry present between Leopold, Lightcap, and Nora in this film. A downright interesting thriller. Keep your Summer dramatic and debonair with this 1940s cinematic masterpiece. (Stream on Prime Video and Tubi)
Car Wash (1976)
The film that inspired this list! Keep it cool and groovy this Summer with this hilarious black comedy. Its dedication to music and humor— utilizing the musical prowess of Rose Royce and Norman Whitfield— will have you dancing in your seat and clapping your hands to the beat. Any person who enjoyed Spike Lee’s Do The Right Thing will definitely appreciate this film, as they both follow a similar template. The story itself follows a plethora of interesting and captivating characters all working at Dee-Lux Car Wash, specifically one day in their lives. From T.C’s fight for love to Abdullah’s desire for rest, Car Wash is definitely the kind of film that will set your Summer up for success. (Available on VOD/Digital)
