Almost Summer

Almost Summer

Year: 1978

Runtime: 88 mins

Language: English

Director: Martin Davidson

Comedy

Aren’t you glad it’s Almost Summer? A high-school election gets nasty.

Almost Summer (1978) – Spoiler-Free Movie Summary & Plot Overview

Get a spoiler-free look at Almost Summer (1978) with a clear plot overview that covers the setting, main characters, and story premise—without revealing key twists or the ending. Perfect for deciding if this film is your next watch.

In the sun‑soaked suburbs of a California beach town, the senior class at a bustling high school prepares for the most talked‑about event of the year: the student‑body presidential election. The season’s heat mirrors the rising tension as students trade campaign flyers on the boardwalk and whisper about who will wear the power‑laced sash. Beneath the laid‑back surf culture, a competitive undercurrent pulses, promising a mix of teenage drama, humor, and the earnest quest for recognition.

Bobby DeVito is the unofficial king‑maker of the race, a sharp‑tongued junior who has already staked his reputation on the candidacy of his friend Grant Michelson. With a keen eye on the competition, he watches the charismatic and confident Christine Alexander, who flirts openly with senior class president Kevin Hawkins. Bobby’s world is further complicated by his close‑knit bond with his sister Donna, whose own teenage hopes and crushes add a personal stake to the political fray, and his loyal sidekick Dean Hampton, who balances his own ambitions with a budding romance.

When the campaign field unexpectedly narrows, Bobby’s attention shifts to the unassuming Darryl Fitzgerald, a quiet junior whose shy demeanor masks a hidden affection for Christine. The prospect of an underdog stepping into the spotlight intrigues Bobby, while Donna silently roots for the same newcomer, seeing in him a chance for something fresh. Across the hallway, Dean navigates the fickle world of aspiring singers and dates that could either solidify or crumble his own future, underscored by his relationship with the talented Nicole.

The film captures the bright‑lit corridors of high‑school life, where friendships are tested, ambitions flare, and the promise of summer hangs just out of reach. With a tone that swings between lighthearted banter and the earnest struggle for identity, the story invites viewers to wonder how far a group of teenagers will go to claim a title that feels far bigger than a simple school office.

Last Updated: December 04, 2025 at 18:01

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Discover curated groups of movies connected by mood, themes, and story style. Browse collections built around emotion, atmosphere, and narrative focus to easily find films that match what you feel like watching right now.

Sunny Teen Stories like Almost Summer

Lighthearted coming-of-age tales set against a backdrop of youthful optimism and personal growth.For viewers who liked 'Almost Summer', this section features movies with a similar light, optimistic, and nostalgic feel. Discover other sun-drenched teen comedies and gentle coming-of-age stories where youthful self-discovery is at the heart of the fun.

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Narrative Summary

These narratives typically follow a young protagonist navigating a low-stakes but personally significant challenge, such as a school contest or first romance. The conflict is designed to test their character, ultimately affirming values like honesty and authenticity, and leading to a positive, satisfying resolution.

Why These Movies?

They are grouped by a shared commitment to a light tone, low emotional stakes, and a focus on the positive, often nostalgic, aspects of teenage life. The primary appeal is a consistent, upbeat, and undemanding viewing experience.

Movies about Integrity like Almost Summer

Stories where characters face a moral crossroads in a low-pressure world.If you enjoyed how 'Almost Summer' centered on a character's choice between winning and being honest, explore these other films. Find movies with similar moral dilemmas where the stakes are personal, not global, and integrity triumphs.

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Narrative Summary

The narrative pattern involves a protagonist being tempted by ambition or peer pressure to compromise their values. After a period of doubt, they make the ethically correct choice, which is validated by the story's outcome, leading to personal vindication and often reconciliation with others.

Why These Movies?

These films share a core thematic focus on a specific type of moral arc. While their genres and settings may vary, they are unified by a straightforward plot where ethical self-discovery is the primary driver and leads to a positive conclusion.

Unlock the Full Story of Almost Summer

Don't stop at just watching — explore Almost Summer in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what Almost Summer is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

Almost Summer Summary

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Almost Summer Summary

Almost Summer Timeline

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Almost Summer Timeline

Characters, Settings & Themes in Almost Summer

Discover the characters, locations, and core themes that shape Almost Summer. Get insights into symbolic elements, setting significance, and deeper narrative meaning — ideal for thematic analysis and movie breakdowns.

Characters, Settings & Themes in Almost Summer

More About Almost Summer

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