Monster Summer Movie Review

 

You know that moment when a movie you meant to watch just casually strolls back into your life? That was Monster Summer for me. I had it on my radar once, then life did its thing, and the movie slipped into the abyss. But then—bam—there it was on Showtime like a forgotten voicemail from your haunted past. I hit play. And honestly? It brought the eerie in the best way.

The story revolves around Noah Reed, played by Mason Thames, an aspiring journalist and writer who’d rather investigate shady happenings than suffer through summer boredom. When kids start vanishing in his seemingly quiet town, Noah starts pulling at threads that most adults would rather leave frayed. Thames brings a sharpness to the role—he’s observant, inquisitive, and just reckless enough to make things interesting.

Then there's Gene Carruthers, portrayed by Mel Gibson, and if you were expecting a normal father figure… nope. Gene is mysterious, grizzled, and possibly in over his head with old town folklore. He’s the kind of guy who’s got stories that start with “Back when this town still had secrets…” and you can’t tell if he’s protecting Noah or dragging him deeper into danger.

Rounding out the trio is Noah Cottrell as Ben Driskel, Noah’s loyal friend with a quick wit and a talent for being in the wrong place at the creepiest possible time. Ben keeps the mood light without deflating the tension—like comic relief with decent survival instincts.

The big bad? A possible witch hiding in plain sight, stirring up town-wide dread. No monster masks or jump-scare clichés here—this villain is built on unsettling silence, folklore whispers, and those “why is this person giving Victorian funeral vibes” moments. The film leans into slow-building fear and mystery, and it’s better for it.

What Monster Summer nails is tone—it doesn’t overdo the horror or rely on gore. It wraps the story in paranoia and suspense, letting the viewer play detective alongside Noah. The performances elevate it above the typical teen thriller, giving you depth without dragging down the pace.

So yeah, I missed it the first time around, but I’m glad I circled back. Monster Summer delivers on eerie charm, character intrigue, and that kind of storytelling that makes you side-eye your own small town. It’s not just a movie—it’s a mystery with teeth.

I give this film 3 out of 5 acorns.