As a former movie critic and someone who remains passionate about films, I consider them a vital part of life. 

Although colleagues and friends don’t discuss them often anymore, I take solace in the fact there are ample aficionados on social media, namely X.

When anybody asks about my favorite hobby, “Watching movies” is usually the initial response – though I haven’t patronized Fleming Island’s AMC 12 enough to my liking this year.

Motion pictures occupy my mind these days for a few reasons, foremost because Clay County is offering Reel Fun Nights on Fridays at the fairgrounds in Green Cove Springs. (Reporter Kyla Woodard’s related story is on page 3.)

The Reel Fun screening schedule includes animated features Dog Man and Surf’s Up, shown on June 13 and June 20, respectively; followed by the original Top Gun on June 27. It’s a clean, old-fashioned way to get out and about on weekends.

What’s more, the new independent film Velvet was partly shot at Sunrise to Sunset diner in April. Last I heard, that picture is supposed to be released for public consumption by year’s end.

Above all, summertime tends to make us nostalgic for drive-in theaters and movies in general.

The topic prompts one to remember a handful of flicks that were shot in and around northeast Florida, chiefly Jacksonville: The Devil’s Advocate, G.I. Jane, The Manchurian Candidate, Jaws 2 and Lonely Hearts, the last of which harbors a spotty script that belies its stellar cast (John Travolta, Salma Hayek and James Gandolfini).

Among the most well-known films associated with summer that instantly spring to one’s mind: Jaws, Field of Dreams, National Lampoon’s Vacation and Grease.

Nothing against those popular American treasures, but here are a handful of other “summertime” movies that offer as much substance and satisfaction in my book:

American Graffiti

George Lucas’ old-school comedy/musical takes place on the final day of summer circa 1962. The feature is known, aside from its jukebox of a soundtrack, for jump-starting the Hollywood careers of young actors.

Moonrise Kingdom

This 2012 undervalued gem isn’t mentioned enough in director Wes Anderson’s oeuvre, but it’s his finest, most relatable work. Some filmgoers celebrate his post-2018 projects, but they’re too pedantic and sterilized for my taste. Give me Anderson’s earlier pictures, this coming-of-age unpretentious beauty above all.

The Way Way Back

You may assume this “dramedy” about a shy teen spending the summer with his divorced mom at a beach house is for the birds. But when the boy lands a job at a water park, the action and humor pick up steam. Sam Rockwell, Steve Carell and Toni Collette alternate holding our attention.

Do the Right Thing

Spike Lee’s acclaimed chronicle of racial tensions on a sweltering day in Brooklyn is profound as it is entertaining. One of the controversial director’s memorable works that stand the test of time.

Stand By Me

Another coming-of-age tale, partially based on author Stephen King’s childhood, about a foursome of male friends who strengthen their bond while trekking toward a dead body. At turns amusing and serious, its dialogue includes the oft-quoted “I never had any friends later on like ones I had when I was 12” voiced by Richard Dreyfuss’ narration.