A selection of films set by the sea, ocean, and on sunny islands
Summer is the season for films that make you want to head to the seaside immediately. In this selection, we’ve gathered action comedies with plenty of adventure, chases, absurd situations, and picturesque coastal locations.
From criminal adventures in sunny Los Angeles to detectives on private islands, these movies easily captivate with their plots and keep you entertained. We’ve put together six films that will help add a summer mood even when your vacation is just in the planning stages.

“The Nice Guys” (2016)
Los Angeles in the 1970s: neon signs, disco, heat, and the beaches of California. Private investigator Holland March (Ryan Gosling) and hired muscle Jackson Healy (Russell Crowe) would hardly have become partners under other circumstances. However, the mysterious disappearance of a young woman (Margaret Qualley) forces them to team up and dive into a world of criminal conspiracies and eccentric characters. “The Nice Guys” successfully combines detective, comedy, and stylish retro aesthetics.
“Knight and Day” (2010)
A simple trip to the airport for June (Cameron Diaz) turns into a real adventure after meeting Roy Miller (Tom Cruise). He’s an agent on the run, and she’s an accidental companion caught in the middle of a dangerous operation.
The film constantly shifts locations, from European cities to tropical coasts. The fast pace, chases, jokes, and the charisma of the main actors make “Knight and Day” one of the most enjoyable summer blockbusters in recent years.
“The Lost City” (2022)
Novelist Loretta Sage (Sandra Bullock) writes adventure novels but doesn’t take many risks herself. Everything changes when she is kidnapped by an eccentric billionaire who is convinced that the ancient city described in her books truly exists. Alan (Channing Tatum), the cover model from her novels, sets out to rescue Loretta, eager to prove he can be a hero off the page.
“The Lost City” is a lighthearted adventure comedy with jungles, treasure hunts, and plenty of self-irony. It’s an ideal choice for those who miss the spirit of classic adventure films.
“Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery” (2022)
Detective Benoit Blanc, portrayed by Daniel Craig, travels to a private island in the Aegean Sea, where billionaire Miles Bron has gathered friends for an unusual murder mystery game. However, the fictional investigation soon turns into a real one.
Director Rian Johnson transports the familiar detective formula to the setting of a luxurious resort and assembles a strong ensemble cast: Edward Norton, Janelle Monáe, Kate Hudson, Leslie Odom Jr., Kathryn Hahn, and Dave Bautista.
“Red Notice” (2021)
FBI Agent John Hartley (Dwayne Johnson) is pursuing the famous art thief Nolan Booth (Ryan Reynolds). However, circumstances force them to work together to outwit an even more dangerous rival – Bishop (Gal Gadot).
The film’s events unfold in various corners of the globe, from European cities to the jungles of South America. It’s a large-scale action-adventure with plenty of humor, chases, and unexpected twists.
“Bear Trap” (2026)
Russell Crowe is back in Los Angeles, but this time not in the retro vibe of the 70s, but in a highly tense present day. His character, Manco Capac, only dreamed of a quiet retirement after years in the criminal business until an attack on his nightclub turned his life into a crazy game of survival. The mistaken accusation of attacking the wrong guy sets off a chain of violence, drawing corrupt cops and ruthless drug trade players into the conflict.
The film masterfully blends drive, dark humor, and criminal intrigue – director Derrick Borte was clearly inspired by Guy Ritchie’s “The Gentlemen.” The cast is a separate pleasure: Aaron Paul plays a teacher who accidentally finds himself in the wrong place at the wrong time, Luke Evans appears as an undercover agent, and Nina Dobrev surprises with her portrayal of an eccentric cashier with romantic illusions about the criminal underworld.
The film is set to be released in Ukrainian cinemas on June 18th.
Джерело новини: elle.ua
