Pools is written and directed by Sam Hayes and follows a teen girl named Kennedy (Odessa A’zion), who’s stuck in summer school after falling behind in class. She’s been struggling since the death of one of her parents and is still dealing with the grief. With the summer heat becoming unbearable and no working air conditioning, she and a group of friends start sneaking into people’s backyards, just to swim in their pools. At the same time, we meet Michael (Michael Vlamis), who works for an air conditioning company but isn’t doing great himself, personally or professionally. Their paths cross several times throughout the film, all while the film has a comedic narrator.

Pools is a unique and visually stunning film that tells a compelling and original story. From the very beginning, we’re introduced to Kennedy, a chaotic yet captivating character whose energy is both lively and fun. As the film unfolds, we meet more characters attending summer school, including Shane (Francesca Noel), Delaney (Ariel Winter), Reed (Mason Gooding), and Blake (Tyler Alvarez). Each brings their own distinct personality to the group. What sets this group apart is their kindness towards one another. Unlike the typical groups we often see in teen films, this friend group is supportive and non-judgmental. Despite their differences, they care for each other, though I did feel slightly bad for Blake at times. The friends explore deeper connections, romance and become closer as the story goes on.

One of the highlights for me was the bond between Michael and Kennedy. The film shifts between scenes of Kennedy with her friends and scenes of Michael’s own journey, allowing us to explore both characters on a deeper level. When Kennedy and Michael finally connect, they inspire and challenge each other in meaningful ways. Their conversations feel honest and vulnerable, especially as Kennedy seems more open and unfiltered with Michael than with anyone else. Their connection delivers some of the most heartfelt moments in the film. The cast is all fantastic, but Michael and Odessa really shine throughout the movie. The film looks amazing with the visuals, especially the water scenes, like the nighttime shots with smoke or the underwater moments, are really beautiful and stand out. Pools has numerous funny moments as well as emotional moments and one thing that adds to the comedy is the cinematography.

We get lots of zoomed-in shots, which you wouldn’t normally expect to be funny, but they help add to the comedic moments and also show the distance characters are talking at times. We also get a scene that’s shot like a horror movie, showcasing Sam’s talent as a director through his many unique and creative choices. Pools features a recurring instrumental theme that plays throughout the film, and I thought the score was really well done.

Another highlight for me is that this is the first film I’ve seen with a message like this. It’s something I’ve never seen done in a movie before. One of the messages in Pools is about the different opportunities and paths you can take in life outside the traditional education system. Most films focus on the idea that you have to get a formal education to get a job, but this film shows that there are other ways to build a life and career. It felt real and honest. I found that message both sweet and heartfelt and related to it. I also appreciated the other messages the film explores, and how it handles them in such a thoughtful way.

Overall, Pools is a great film with a powerful and original message that hasn’t been explored in movies before. It balances a fantastically talented cast with heartfelt comedy, emotional moments, romance, and the strength of friendship. I hope we get a sequel where all the characters stay connected, and we get to see what happens next with them. 4 ⭐️