Okay movie lovers get ready for something different. Comedian Jillian Bell known for being hilarious on screen is now stepping behind the camera for her directorial debut with a movie called 'Summer of 69' . And let me tell you it sounds like a wild ride.
From Funny Lady to Director: Jillian Bell Takes the Helm with 'Summer of 69' and It's Already Making Waves
Jillian Bell is not just starring in comedies anymore she is directing them too! 'Summer of 69' premiered at SXSW in 2025 and it's getting people talking. Bell herself joked that releasing her first movie is like "giving birth in front of everyone". Talk about pressure!
But from early reviews it looks like she might have delivered something pretty special. Bell is known for her comedic chops and she is bringing that humor to this film but with a director's vision. She even plays a small role in the movie as a sex shop clerk. It seems like she is all in on this project.
'Summer of 69' Plot: Awkward Teen Stripper Sex Coach and a Quest for Bedroom Confidence? Buckle Up!
So what is 'Summer of 69' actually about? Well it is a coming-of-age comedy but with a very unique twist. The movie centers around Abby Flores played by Sam Morelos. Abby is a teenager who is not exactly experienced in the romance department. She has a major crush on a guy named Max but she feels clueless about how to take things to the next level especially when it comes to well you know... the "bedroom department".
Here's where things get interesting. Abby overhears that Max is a fan of the "69" position. Being a teenager with limited knowledge she decides to get some help. Instead of turning to the usual sources like you know the internet Abby heads to a strip club. Yes a strip club. There she is mesmerized by a confident stripper named Santa Monica played by Chloe Fineman .
Abby comes up with a plan. She hires Santa Monica to be her "sex coach" for a week. For 20 grand. Yes twenty thousand dollars! Apparently Abby is a successful video game streamer. Talk about a plot twist. What follows is a week of hilarious and awkward lessons as Santa Monica tries to help Abby gain confidence and well learn about the birds and the bees in a very unconventional way.
Chloe Fineman Shines as Santa Monica: SNL Star's First Big Movie Role is Getting Rave Reviews
Chloe Fineman from Saturday Night Live is taking on her first major movie role as Santa Monica and critics are loving it. Fineman is known for her impressions and comedic timing and she brings all of that to this role. Santa Monica is described as bold enterprising and the perfect "bad influence" older kid that teaches Abby way more about sex than any school or parent ever could.
Reviewers are saying Fineman is ready for a film career after this performance. She brings both humor and heart to Santa Monica making her more than just a stereotypical stripper character. Her comedic chemistry with Sam Morelos as Abby is also highlighted as a major strength of the movie.
'Summer of 69' Reviews: Funny Heartwarming and a Tribute to Teen Movie Classics?
Early reviews of 'Summer of 69' are calling it a hilarious tribute to classic teen movies. Think 'Risky Business' or 'American Pie' but with a female-led perspective. It is described as a "modern sex romp" that plays on the awkwardness and cringe of coming-of-age especially for young women.
While some reviews point out the plot is a bit far-fetched and relies on some convenient plot devices the humor and heart seem to win over most critics. The movie is praised for being funny sweet and ultimately about female friendship and self-discovery. It tackles themes of growing up too fast and the importance of figuring out your own path when it comes to sex and relationships.
Paula Pell Nicole Byer Liza Koshy and Charlie Day also get shout-outs for their funny supporting roles adding to the comedic ensemble.
Key Players in 'Summer of 69': Cast List and Behind-the-Scenes Crew
Want to know who else is involved in 'Summer of 69'? Here is a quick rundown:
- Director: Jillian Bell (Feature Directorial Debut)
- Screenwriters: Jillian Bell Liz Nico Jules Byrne
- Cast:
- Chloe Fineman as Santa Monica
- Sam Morelos as Abby Flores
- Matt Cornett as Max
- Paula Pell as Diamond Dolls Owner
- Charlie Day as Rick Richards
- Nicole Byer
- Liza Koshy
- Alex Moffat
- Fernando Carsa
- Cinematography: Maria Rusche
- Editor: Casey Brooks
- Distribution: Hulu
Get Ready for 'Summer of 69' on Hulu: A Hilarious and Heartfelt Coming-of-Age Story
If you are looking for a raunchy funny and surprisingly sweet coming-of-age comedy 'Summer of 69' might be right up your alley. Jillian Bell's directorial debut is getting good buzz Chloe Fineman is getting praised for her performance and the movie promises to be a fun and relatable take on teen sexuality and female friendship. Keep an eye out for 'Summer of 69' on Hulu it sounds like it is going to be a movie worth checking out!