In recent years, there has been a significant decrease in horror-themed movies for kids. Films such as The Goonies, Hocus Pocus, Halloween Town, and The Monster Squad seem to be a thing of the past. That is, until Monster Summer. The story brings a nostalgic vibe to a forgotten genre through familiar settings, characters, and iconic teen movie actors.

The film takes place in 1997 and centers on Noah (Mason Thames) and his friends during a summer in their hometown of Martha’s Vineyard. As they enjoy playing baseball and navigate the excitement of summer romances, they also contend with the presence of a mysterious monster. There have been mysterious disappearances, and now one of their own has returned as a shell of themselves.

Now, Noah has to team up with the disgraced local, who happens to be a retired detective (Mel Gibson) to solve this mystery and save his friends, and his summer!

MONSTER SUMMER BRINGS THE DCOM VIBES

I love a spooky Disney Channel Original Movie from Phantom at the Megaplex, Don’t Look Under the Bed, and who can forget Underwraps? Monster Summer successfully revives the fun and campy spirit, as well as the no-so-scary that’s been missing for a long time. Mason Thames (The Black Phone) and Mel Gibson are fantastic together. There’s so much heart built into their characters and the two don’t miss a beat.

Monster Summer is directed by David Henrie, who is well-acquainted with family-friendly content. This month, he is also launching his reboot of Wizards Beyond Waverly Place. His expertise and passion for the genre are evident throughout the film.

Although the film title suggests the presence of numerous monsters, it actually features only a witch. The witch’s practical appearance evokes a sense of nostalgia. However, the events that transpire leave the ending open for possible sequels and more spooky monsters to take over the summer vacation hot spot.

The only element I felt was lacking in Monster Summer was a quintessential 90s soundtrack. The absence of music that truly immerses the viewer in the 90s era was noticeable. The film needed one icon song to elevate its impact.

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