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Hell of a Summer’ Debuts in Theaters with Mixed Reviews

Finn Wolfhard and Billy Bryk’s genre-blending horror-comedy explores nostalgia and personal growth but divides critics on its execution.

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Overview

  • The film, co-written, co-directed, and co-starring Finn Wolfhard and Billy Bryk, is set in a summer camp where a masked killer targets counselors.
  • Inspired by 70s and 80s horror and coming-of-age comedies, the movie aims to blend genres while focusing on character-driven storytelling.
  • Fred Hechinger stars as Jason Hochberg, a camp counselor navigating personal and professional challenges, whose character anchors the narrative.
  • Released widely in theaters on April 4, 2025, through NEON, the film follows a grassroots promotional campaign that included visits to schools and discussions with young filmmakers.
  • While praised for its humor and nostalgic elements, critics have noted uneven execution, lack of suspense, and amateurish production qualities.