Vertical is set to release “Griffin in Summer” in select theaters on Friday, August 29, 2025, following its acclaimed premiere at the 2024 Tribeca Film Festival. Directed by Nicholas Colia in his feature debut, the film blends comedy, drama, and heartfelt storytelling in a refreshing look at adolescence through the eyes of a precocious 14-year-old.
At the center of the film is Griffin Nafly (played by breakout star Everett Blunck), a teenager who doesn’t quite fit in with his peers. While most of his classmates lean into typical teenage experiences — music, parties, and romance — Griffin remains fixated on his playwriting ambitions, staging works inspired by “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?” meets “American Beauty.” This artistic obsession leaves him both brilliant and alienated, drifting apart from friends like Kara (Abbie Ryder Fortson), who are moving forward into young adulthood.
The film cleverly positions itself as a tween take on “Theater Camp,” but with a more solitary, bittersweet edge. Griffin’s eccentricity is heightened by his odd relationships at home, particularly with his mother (Melanie Lynskey), whom he addresses by her first name, reflecting his complicated perspective on adulthood.
The story deepens when Brad (Owen Teague), a volatile handyman and former performance artist, enters Griffin’s world. Their dynamic is messy, intriguing, and layered — pushing Griffin toward new emotional and creative territories. Brad’s influence, both comical and unsettling, forces Griffin to confront feelings he doesn’t fully understand. Scenes involving Brad, including the temporary casting of him in Griffin’s play, add moments of sharp humor and surprising tenderness.
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Nicholas Colia’s direction balances comedic absurdity with emotional depth. Though tonal shifts sometimes feel abrupt, the narrative ultimately lands on a meaningful message: even the most isolated “theater nerds” are never truly alone. Supported by strong performances and witty dialogue, “Griffin in Summer” emerges as a thoughtful coming-of-age film that highlights Colia’s strengths in casting, character building, and storytelling.
With its mix of heart, humor, and theatrical charm, “Griffin in Summer” offers audiences a smart and empathetic reflection on creativity, identity, and the universal longing to belong.
