About Hot Summer Nights

Directed by Elijah Bynum, Hot Summer Nights is an American coming-of-age drama that was released in 2018. The film played at the South by Southwest festival and was distributed by A24. Set in the summer of 1991 against the backdrop of Cape Cod, it follows a teenager named Daniel Middleton who becomes entangled in a dangerous world of drugs, romance and murder.

Making / Production

The film is the full-length directorial debut of Elijah Bynum, who also penned the screenplay. It was shot on location in Atlanta, Georgia. Despite being an indie film, it features a strong ensemble cast, stylish cinematic techniques, and a nostalgic soundtrack reflective of its early '90s setting.

Actors

• Timothée Chalamet as Daniel Middleton: Chalamet plays Daniel, a shy out-of-towner who gets in over his head after entering the world of drug dealing.
• Maika Monroe as McKayla Strawberry: Monroe is the local folklore and Daniel's love interest, who delivers a complex and engaging performance.
• Alex Roe as Hunter Strawberry: Roe portrays Daniel's business partner and McKayla's brother, serving up an intriguing mix of charm and danger.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The film made its debut at the South by Southwest Film Festival in 2017, although it was not released generally until 2018.
• This film is both the directorial and screenwriting debut of Elijah Bynum.
• Despite being set in Cape Cod, Massachusetts, the movie was primarily shot in Georgia.

Quotes

• “Do you even know what a lobotomy is? It’s when they cut part of your brain out.” - Daniel
• “I’m not scared, I'm pissed. It’s different.” - McKayla
• “Paranoia will destroy ya.” - Hunter

Music, Soundtrack

• “I’m so Free” by Lou Reed & John Cale
• "Flaunt It" by TV Rock
• “War” by Edwin Starr