The Best Movie Moments of the Summer

Hello all. Mark here.

I really enjoyed the cinematic efforts of summer 2014. The original stories blended well with the remakes, sequels, reboots and prequels to make it all interesting. Some movies were unexpectedly good (Edge of Tomorrow), some understandably tanked (Expendables 3, which I still enjoyed) and others featured talk of black light discoveries in space (Guradians).

The best parts of the cinematic summer were the neat moments that proved to be memorable. They left me laughing, confused and dazed with happiness. I applaud them for their randomness and ability to capture attention in mere seconds.

Without further ado here are my favorite movie moments of the summer. Make sure to check out my Best Characters of Summer 2014 as well!

1. Baby Groot dancing 

The Guardians of the Galaxy was the hit of the summer. How did it do it? Likable characters, heart on its sleeve narrative and a whole lot of offbeat humor. What sealed the deal? An adorable baby Groot dancing.

2. Ethan Hawke’s quote from Boyhood “You have to ask them lots of questions, and then you have to listen.”

Boyhood is my favorite film of the summer. Richard Linklater filled it with a plethora of amazing moments. However, the Hawke quote sets the pace for many future interactions.

3. Godzilla’s nap

The dude fights two monsters. Takes a nap. Swims away. He is the blue collar hero we need.

4. The Fish scene in Snowpiercer

Snowpiercer is beautifully controlled chaos. The fish scene encompasses the violence, oddness and tone of the film. You kinda have to see it.

5. Anytime Dolph wears stylish scarves or head wraps in Expendables 3

The Expendables 3 was a fun film that only wanted to blow stuff up. It also allowed Dolph to wear a whole lot of scarves.

6. Watching John Favreau, John Leguizamo and Bobby Cannavale joke around in Chef. 

Can we get a Chef 2: More Kitchen Banter please?

7. The first time Tom Cruise hits the beach in Edge of Tomorrow

The first twenty minutes are a miracle of smarm, death and squish noises. Also, Emily Blunt is fantastic as Cruise’s mentor/foil/love interest.

8. Mark Ruffalo discovering Keira Knightley in Begin Again 

It is a simple moment featuring a drunk Ruffalo discovering Keira Knightley while she is bombing at an open mic. The scene shows off their talents and forges a believable bond. I love when you learn about a character via their actions instead of expository dialogue.

9. Anything involving Toothless flying in How to Train your Dragon 2 

Roger Deakins (Skyfall, Prisoners) was the visual consultant on the film and it shows. HTTYD2 is a visual marvel that leaves you breathless.

10. Any moment featuring Brendan Gleeson in Calvary.

If he doesn’t get an Oscar nomination it will hurt my soul.

11. The moment when Channing Tatum finds out that Jonah Hill slept with Ice Cube’s daughter in 22 Jump Street. 

Tatum’s reaction is hilarious and goes on for way too long. The best moment of a funny film.

12. The moment when Scarjo uses approximately 71.6 of her brain in Lucy. 

Luc Besson is insane (in a good way).

What are your favorite moments?