‘Griffin in Summer’ is a poignant coming-of-age film about a teenage playwright navigating self-discovery and family challenges

The film ‘Griffin in Summer,’ directed by Nicholas Colia in his feature debut, centers on fourteen-year-old Griffin Nafly, an ambitious playwright immersed in self-expression during a summer of transformation. Griffin creates and performs original plays that reflect his experiences and emotions, especially surrounding family disruption and his estranged father. The storyline captures his complex inner world and burgeoning romantic feelings, particularly towards Brad, a handyman hired by Griffin’s mother. The film sensitively explores themes of queer youth, the awkwardness of adolescence, and the yearning for stability amid personal chaos. It combines humor with emotional depth and highlights the tension between youthful dreams and harsh realities. While the film occasionally falters when Griffin pursues lofty Broadway ambitions, it resonates deeply with anyone familiar with the intensity of growing up too fast. With a running time of 90 minutes and not rated, the movie provides a charming yet thoughtful portrayal of young self-discovery intertwined with family dynamics.