4 movies for a cozy night in
The summer season is full of activities, but sometimes you just need a night in. Whether that’s with a friend, solo, or a group get together, here are four movies for a summer night in courtesy of Alaina, the founder of LBXO Reviews.
Alaina’s picks
After multiple years of sharing brief film reviews on my personal Instagram story, I decided to create a separate page dedicated to saving people money at the theater. While seeing films has been difficult due to production setbacks from the pandemic, I‘m back to my usual schedule and have plenty to talk about.
In each of my feed posts I provide a brief plot summary, my overall pros and cons, whether or not I believe it's worth your money, and a final letter score. Also, I share any film news or film-related content I come across to my story, giving my followers further insight on all that's been going on in the industry.
There are so many great films finally coming out and I can’t wait to share my thoughts. Until then, enjoy these recommendations for your next cozy night in.
1. Glass Onion: A Knives Out Story - Available on Netflix
Plot: “Five long-time friends are invited to the Greek island home of billionaire Miles Bron. All five know Bron from way back and owe their current wealth, fame, and careers to him. The main event is a murder weekend game with Bron to be the victim. In reality, they all have reasons to kill him. Also invited is Benoit Blanc, the world's greatest detective.”
Why I love it: I'm a huge fan of mysteries and this film's predecessor Knives Out. The great thing about it though, this is an anthology series so you don’t have to have seen Knives Out to watch this one. Its cast is littered with familiar faces, an insane amount of suspense, and endless plot twists to keep you engaged.
2. How To Be Single - Available on Hulu
Plot: “There's a right way to be single, a wrong way to be single, and then — there's Alice, Robin, Lucy, Meg, Tom, and David. New York City is full of lonely hearts seeking the right match, be it a love connection, a hook-up, or something in the middle. And somewhere between the teasing texts and one-night stands, what these unmarrieds all have in common is the need to learn how to be single in a world filled with ever-evolving definitions of love. Sleeping around in the city that never sleeps was never so much fun.”
Why I love it: This feel-good film highlights the highs and lows of navigating relationships as a young adult. It’s sweet, hilarious, and feels like the second coming of age that no one talks about, ESPECIALLY if you’re watching-while-single. Who knows? You may come out of it with a revelation or two about yourself.
3. Scream (1996) - Available on Paramount+
Plot: “A year after the murder of her mother, a teenage girl is terrorized by a masked killer who targets her and her friends by using scary movies as part of a deadly game.”
Why I love it: I will always recommend this movie because it’s my favorite film and was my introduction to the horror genre. The meta-commentary and self-awareness are sure to make you giggle while trying to figure out who’s behind the infamous Ghostface mask. Even better, the entire franchise is currently available to stream on Paramount+ ready for anyone who dares to binge it. This includes the newest addition to the franchise and one of the best horror films this year, Scream VI.
4. The Menu - Available on Max
Plot: “A young couple travels to a remote island to eat at an exclusive restaurant where the chef has prepared a lavish menu, with some shocking surprises.”
Why I love it: This psychological thriller takes you on an emotional rollercoaster like no other. These dinner guests have no idea of the events that will take place but are in for a rude and personal awakening. There’s not much else I can share without spoiling something, other than the fact that it kept me on my toes from beginning to end and is sure to leave you just as shocked as those guests were.
Happy watching.