The Kings of Summer

Three restless teens flee to the woods for the summer with a simple vow to run their own show. They carve out a rough shelter in a hidden clearing, decide what to eat, and set up rules that fit their idea of freedom. Joe Toy, Patrick Keenan, and Biaggio become a makeshift family, trading chores for trust as they improvise beds, a fire pit, and a few comforts from home. They test the boundaries of friendship, authority, and responsibility while dodging worried parents and the world that keeps intruding. Humorous misfires and small triumphs punctuate days that feel both gloriously carefree and oddly fragile, as plans shift with weather, boredom, and growing pains. They encounter practical problems like finding water, dealing with fear of the unknown, and a first romantic stumble.

Directed by Jordan Vogt-Roberts, The Kings of Summer marks one of his early features, written by Chris Galletta from an original idea. The film premiered at festivals in 2013 before a limited release, earning attention for its grounded performances and dry humor. Filming ran on a tight schedule with a small crew, and the Midwest setting was captured with a hands-on feel that mirrors the teenagers improvising their makeshift home.

Box office: The movie earned about 1.4 million worldwide against a roughly 1.5 million budget, reflecting its indie status and selective release. The numbers speak to the film's niche appeal rather than broad blockbuster impact.

Though not a cultural juggernaut, the film helped popularize a down to earth coming-of-age tone in indie cinema. It sparked discussion about adolescence independence and how young people form a surrogate family when grownups fail to listen. Its straightforward approach to friendship and risk influenced later teen dramas that favor authenticity over hype.

Critics generally praised the ensemble cast led by Nick Robinson, Gabriel Basso, and Moises Arias, noting the film's steady blend of humor and melancholy. The movie quietly questions what makes a home and whether escape is really escape from responsibility. The tone balances playful mischief with honest vulnerability, leaving audiences with a sense of earned growth.