Best Summer Ever

Best Summer Ever, directed by Michael Parks Randa and Lauren Smitelli and released in 2020, transcends the conventional norms of filmmaking by delivering an unwaveringly wholesome, heartfelt, and enormously entertaining film centered around inclusive representation.

The star-studded cast featuring Shannon DeVido, Rickey Alexander Wilson, and Madeline Rhodes among others, contributes to a narrative that isn't just about disability but is deeply intertwined in diversity and a transformative representation of disabled people being fully immersed in societal and normal day-to-day roles. Right off the bat, the film's intention is to challenge societal norms and preconceived notions we might hold about certain individuals and hence, it manifests itself as an ode to the power of inclusivity, diversity, and unity.

The movie sets itself up as a typical high school romantic-sports trope, but the catch here is that nothing about the film is stereotypical. At the heart of the narrative are two main characters, Sage (played by Shannon DeVido) and Tony (Rickey Alexander Wilson) who share a charming summer romance filled with laughter, love, and shattered stereotypes. However, as the warmth of the summer sun fades away, high school awaits with its own set of challenges, trials, and tribulations. The two leads, unaware that they are about to attend the same high school, are met with surprise, excitement, and the dread of secrets they might be carrying from the summer.

Shannon DeVido's character, Sage, is a girl who is comfortable in her own skin, unaffected by what society might think of her disability, facing life's joy and adversities with optimism. Rickey Alexander Wilson plays Tony, a cool and charming guy with a heart-melting smile and killer dance moves. Madeline Rhodes, in addition to playing Beth, lends her voice to the film’s original songs, highlighting her impressive talent as a musician. The characters go through a whirlwind of emotions and experiences, showcasing the highs and lows of teenage life, retaining their charm, individuality, and appeal throughout.

The movie sets itself apart as it explores the theme of acceptance and resistance. It masterfully interweaves the story that taps into the nuances of a high school environment, teenage insecurities, peer pressure, and societal expectations. However, rather than falling into cliches, the narrative takes a fresh spin on the genre, offering a unique perspective, where romance blooms amidst diversity, normalizing interactions that break the walls between able-bodied people and those with disabilities.

Best Summer Ever recreates nostalgia from the golden era of cinema and injects it with a contemporary spin by incorporating accessible cinema directions and cast members from diverse backgrounds, making it a ground-breaking film for both disabled and abled viewers. The inclusion of dance and musical numbers provides an enjoyable breathing space, allowing the audience to feel the rhythm as they become more deeply connected with the characters' emotional journey.

Set in a world that doesn’t discriminate, the film prides itself in presenting an inclusive narrative that offers a joyous, emotional, and captivating viewing experience. It's about shattering the glass ceiling, pushing the narrative to the forefront about a world that doesn’t simply accommodate people with disabilities, but truly accepts them for who they are. Larger-than-life, it encapsulates the viewers' hearts and minds, hinting at a better, more understanding and accepting world where people aren't limited or judged based on their physical capabilities.

In a world where mainstream movies still struggle with adequate representation in terms of race, gender and disability, Best Summer Ever also plays a major part in encouraging the film industry to be more inclusive and representative, stepping away from stories about disability that revolves solely around hardship or disability as an obstacle to be overcome.

Fun, romantic, and above all inspiring, Best Summer Ever is a film that strives to change the existing cinematic landscape. It's a testament to how movies truly have the power to inspire change. It will leave you with a warm feeling, inspired thoughts, and the realization that a truly inclusive world isn't just a dream but a very tangible reality that we can all strive to create and inhabit. All while humbly reminding us that everyone deserves the very best summer ever.