What To Watch If You Love 'Cruel Summer'

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Updated May 14, 2024 32 items
Voting Rules
Vote up the films and television series that you know other fans of Cruel Summer will love.

Looking for more shows like Cruel Summer? We’ve compiled this list of movies and TV shows similar to Cruel Summer that are sure to conjure up the same feelings of teen thrills that you had while watching your favorite episodes of Cruel Summer.

With lots of options, including Tell Me Your Secrets, a show with a protagonist who has assumed a new identity, and even movies like Heathers, a film that finds a popular clique dismantled by deception and death, deciding what to watch after Cruel Summer will really just depend on your mood.

Vote up the best movies and shows like Cruel Summer, so other fans know what to watch next. Thanks to streaming services, like Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, Disney Plus, and Prime Video, you can start streaming these movies and shows right now.

With more than 40 million people visiting Ranker every month, we are able to offer you data-driven recommendations based on voting across thousands of film & TV polls.

  • Defending Jacob
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      • Defending Jacob
    1
    15 votes

    Defending Jacob

     

    What to watch if you like: morally ambigous child suspects

     
    A family's lives are irreparably disrupted when the son is accused of murdering a fellow classmate.
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  • Sharp Objects
    2
    6 votes

    Sharp Objects

     

    What to watch if you like: eerie, unsettling dramas

     
    A reporter returns to her hometown to cover the murders of two preteen girls.
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  • Big Little Lies
    3
    11 votes

    Big Little Lies

     

    What to watch if you like: murder mysteries with unique timelines

     
    The seemingly perfect lives of three mothers of first-graders begin to unravel, leading to murder.
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  • Pretty Little Liars
    4
    15 votes

    Pretty Little Liars

     

    What to watch if you like: scandalous affairs

     
    Four teenagers band together against an unknown foe who threatens to expose their secrets.
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  • The Lovely Bones
    5
    16 votes

    The Lovely Bones

     

    What to watch if you like: kidnapping dramas

     
     
    In The Lovely Bones, Susie Salmon (Saoirse Ronan), a young girl, is taken from the world too soon. After her untimely demise, she finds herself in an in-between realm, observing her family as they grapple with their loss. Her father, Jack (Mark Wahlberg), becomes consumed by his quest to find her killer. Meanwhile, Susie must come to terms with her own death and learn how to influence the world she left behind. This drama-thriller, based on Alice Sebold's best-selling novel, delicately weaves together threads of mystery, grief, and the supernatural.
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  • Dare Me
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      • Dare Me
    6
    12 votes

    Dare Me

     

    What to watch if you like: high school power dynamics

     
    Dare Me delves into the dark, competitive world of high school cheerleading, revealing the intricacies of friendship, loyalty, and ambition. This thrilling drama, based on Megan Abbott's acclaimed novel, has garnered praise for its complex characters and unexpected plot twists. The series follows Addy Hanlon (Herizen Guardiola) and Beth Cassidy (Marlo Kelly), two best friends whose lives are upended by the arrival of a new, enigmatic coach, Collette French (Willa Fitzgerald). As tensions rise and secrets unravel, viewers are drawn into a tangled web of deception, betrayal, and power struggles. With its gripping narrative and stellar performances, Dare Me is a must-watch for fans of character-driven dramas.
  • The Wilds
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      • The Wilds
    7
    6 votes

    The Wilds

     

    What to watch if you like: teenage girls fighting for survival

     
    The Wilds, which premiered on December 11, 2020, is a thrilling drama series that follows a group of teenage girls from different backgrounds who fight for survival after a plane crash leaves them stranded on a deserted island. The plot thickens when it's revealed that the crash was not an accident but part of an elaborate social experiment. The ensemble cast includes notable performances by Sophia Ali and Rachel Griffiths. The show explores themes of resilience, friendship, and the tumultuous journey of adolescence under extreme circumstances. It's a captivating mix of mystery and character-driven storytelling.
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  • A Teacher
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      • A Teacher
    8
    11 votes

    A Teacher

     

    What to watch if you like: toxic relationships

     
    Explores the complexities, consequences and aftermath of a predatory student/teacher relationship.
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  • Little Fires Everywhere
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      • Little Fires Everywhere
    9
    11 votes

    Little Fires Everywhere

     

    What to watch if you like: tensions between parents

     
    In the idyllic town of Shaker Heights, Ohio, a thought-provoking drama unfolds that delves into the complexities of motherhood, race, and class. Little Fires Everywhere, based on Celeste Ng's best-selling novel, showcases an ensemble cast led by Reese Witherspoon as Elena Richardson and Kerry Washington as Mia Warren, two mothers with drastically different approaches to life. As their paths cross, tensions rise and secrets are unearthed, igniting a slow-burning narrative that grips viewers from start to finish. The series has garnered critical acclaim, including a Primetime Emmy nomination for Outstanding Limited Series, and continues to spark conversations on pressing societal issues.
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  • The Sinner
    10
    11 votes

    The Sinner

     

    What to watch if you like: suspects with memory issues 

     
    Exploring the depths of human psyche, The Sinner delves into the complex motives behind seemingly inexplicable crimes. This anthology crime drama keeps viewers engaged with its compelling storytelling and exceptional performances. Detective Harry Ambrose (Bill Pullman) takes center stage as he unravels the darkest impulses of his subjects, including Cora Tannetti (Jessica Biel), a woman whose sudden act of violence sets the tone for the series. Each season brings forth new mysteries, intertwining the protagonist's personal struggles with the intricate cases he encounters. The Sinner's subtle narrative, coupled with its haunting atmosphere, offers an enthralling experience for those seeking more than just a typical crime thriller.
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  • Heathers
    11
    11 votes

    Heathers

    For fans of: twisted female friendships

    In the dark comedy Heathers, high school senior Veronica Sawyer (Winona Ryder) finds herself entangled in an unusual relationship with the mysterious new kid, J.D. (Christian Slater). Amidst the social pressures of Westerburg High School, dominated by a clique of girls all named Heather, Veronica and J.D. embark on a rebellious journey against the popular crowd. Their actions quickly spiral into a series of disturbing events that blur the line between teenage rebellion and criminal activity. This 1988 cult classic explores themes of popularity, power, and the chilling lengths some will go to leave their mark on society.
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  • Mare of Easttown
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      • Mare of Easttown
    12
    5 votes

    Mare of Easttown

     

    What to watch if you like: murder mysteries surrounding missing women

     
    Mare of Easttown unfolds as a gripping crime drama that delves into the complexities of human relationships and small-town secrets. The HBO limited series, which has received critical acclaim and numerous award nominations, stars Kate Winslet as Detective Mare Sheehan, who is tasked with solving a harrowing murder case while grappling with her personal demons. Set against the backdrop of a tight-knit Pennsylvania community, the show masterfully intertwines elements of mystery, suspense, and emotional depth. The ensemble cast, featuring standout performances from Julianne Nicholson and Jean Smart, elevates the storytelling, resulting in a thought-provoking and compelling viewing experience.
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  • Looking For Alaska
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      • Looking for Alaska
    13
    12 votes

    Looking For Alaska

     

    What to watch if you like: misfit teens banding together

     
    Set amidst the backdrop of a picturesque boarding school, the show delves into the intricate lives of its students as they navigate through the complexities of adolescence. Adapted from John Green's award-winning novel, the series beautifully portrays the journey of self-discovery and the weight of unrequited love. The protagonist, Miles "Pudge" Halter (Charlie Plummer), forms a deep connection with the enigmatic Alaska Young (Kristine Froseth), whose untamed spirit both enthralls and challenges him. As the narrative unfolds, viewers are treated to a poignant exploration of friendship, loss, and the eternal quest for meaning.
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  • Élite
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      • Elite
    14
    9 votes

    Élite

     

    What to watch if you like: teen murder mysteries with a flashback format

     
    Set within the hallowed halls of Las Encinas, an exclusive private school in Spain, Élite presents a thrilling exploration of teenage angst, power dynamics, and social complexities. The series skillfully weaves together gripping storylines that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. As the lives of the privileged students intertwine with those from humbler backgrounds, tensions inevitably rise, culminating in a shocking crime. Standout performances include Samuel (Itzan Escamilla), whose determination to uncover the truth drives the narrative, and Carla (Ester Expósito), the enigmatic figure at the heart of it all.
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  • 13 Reasons Why
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      • 13 Reasons Why
    15
    8 votes

    13 Reasons Why

     

    What to watch if you like: revenge

     
     
     
    Exploring the complex tapestry of adolescence, 13 Reasons Why delves into the emotional turmoil experienced by high school students. With a gripping narrative that unravels through a series of audiotapes, the show follows Clay Jensen (Dylan Minnette) as he uncovers the reasons behind Hannah Baker's (Katherine Langford) tragic decision. Tackling sensitive subjects such as bullying, mental health, and sexual assault, the drama series has sparked necessary conversations among its viewers. Garnering critical acclaim as well as controversy, 13 Reasons Why pushed boundaries, providing a thought-provoking lens through which to view the challenges faced by today's youth.
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  • American Beauty
    16
    7 votes

    American Beauty

     

    What to watch if you like: small town intrigue

     
    American Beauty, a drama directed by Sam Mendes, unravels the life of Lester Burnham (Kevin Spacey), a depressed suburban father in the throes of a mid-life crisis. The narrative pivots around his infatuation with his daughter's attractive friend, Angela Hayes (Mena Suvari). His wife Carolyn (Annette Bening), an ambitious realtor, and their alienated daughter Jane (Thora Birch) are significant characters in this introspective tale. The film earned numerous accolades, including five Academy Awards. It explores themes of love, freedom and self-discovery amidst the mundanity of American suburban life.
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  • Big Sky
    17
    7 votes

    Big Sky

     

    What to watch if you like: investigations into missing teens 

     
    Big Sky, a crime thriller series, masterfully weaves a narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. Set against the backdrop of Montana's picturesque landscapes, this David E. Kelley creation delves into the dark world of kidnapping and human trafficking. The show follows private detectives Cassie Dewell (Kylie Bunbury) and Cody Hoyt (Ryan Phillippe) as they unravel a complex web of deceit and danger. With its compelling storylines, stellar performances, and critical acclaim, Big Sky has garnered significant attention, including nominations for prestigious awards. As the mystery unfolds, audiences are left eager to uncover the truth alongside the show's tenacious characters.
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  • The Haunting of Hill House
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      • The Haunting of Hill House
    18
    3 votes

    The Haunting of Hill House

     

    What to watch if you like: unsettling mysteries

     
    The Haunting of Hill House, a gripping supernatural drama series, masterfully delves into the complexities of family dynamics and the chilling effects of past traumas. With its intricately woven narrative and superb acting, the show garnered numerous award nominations, including a Saturn Award for Best Streaming Horror & Thriller Series. The Crain family, led by parents Hugh (Henry Thomas) and Olivia (Victoria Pedretti), navigate the harrowing experiences that follow their stay in the notorious Hill House. As the story unfolds, viewers are treated to a rich tapestry of emotional depth and spine-tingling suspense that keeps them guessing until the very end.
  • Marvel's Jessica Jones
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      • Netflix Distribution
    19
    6 votes

    Marvel's Jessica Jones

     

    What to watch if you like: relatable survivors 

     

    Jessica Jones is a super-powered woman who had a brief superhero career until an incident in which the villainous Kilgrave caused her to kill someone. After that incident, she became a private investigator. When Kilgrave resurfaces, Jessica must rise up to stop him.

    In the second season, Jessica Jones discovers that her mother is still alive due to the experiments done by Karl Malus.

    In the third season, Jessica Jones faces off against Gregory Sallinger, an enemy who is determined to prove that she is a fraud, as well as her stepsister-turned-murderous vigilante Trish Walker.

     
     
     
  • The Call
    20
    1 votes

    The Call

     

    What to watch if you like: kidnapping thrillers

     
    A veteran operator for an emergency call-center, Jordan (Halle Berry) saves lives daily as part of her job, but when a young woman's frantic report of a prowler ends tragically, Jordan is devastated. She decides to pack it in on the front lines and -- instead -- teach others the ropes of the high-pressure job. But when a call from a kidnapped teen (Abigail Breslin) comes in, Jordan takes charge as never before and turns the girl into a partner in helping to save her life.
  • Wild Things
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      • Wild Things
    21
    2 votes

    Wild Things

     

    What to watch if you like: plot twists you can't see coming from a mile away

     
    In the steamy thriller Wild Things, Sam Lombardo (Matt Dillon), a well-liked high school counselor, finds his life turned upside down when students Kelly Van Ryan (Denise Richards) and Suzie Toller (Neve Campbell) accuse him of rape. As the scandal unfolds, Detective Ray Duquette (Kevin Bacon) starts digging deeper into the case, unearthing a web of deceit, greed, and revenge. The movie is replete with plot twists that keep viewers on their toes. Amidst the sultry backdrop of Florida's Blue Bay, Wild Things weaves an intricate narrative that challenges perceptions of innocence and guilt.
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  • You
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      • You
    22
    2 votes

    You

     

    What to watch if you like: delusional antagonists

     
    A dangerously charming man falls in love with women and inserts himself into their lives.
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  • Riverdale
    23
    1 votes

    Riverdale

     

    What to watch if you like: teen murder mysteries

     
    Set in the seemingly idyllic town of Riverdale, this gripping teen drama series unravels the dark secrets lurking beneath its picturesque facade. Adapted from the beloved Archie Comics, the show skillfully blends elements of mystery, romance, and suspense, earning numerous Teen Choice Award nominations. Central to the story are the engaging characters such as the earnest Archie Andrews (KJ Apa), the resourceful Betty Cooper (Lili Reinhart), and the enigmatic Veronica Lodge (Camila Mendes). As the series unfolds, viewers are treated to a complex narrative that keeps them on the edge of their seats, all while maintaining a respectful nod to its comic book origins.
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  • Fear
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      • Fear
    24
    2 votes

    Fear

     

    What to watch if you like: obsessive relationships

     
    When 16-year-old Nicole Walker (Reese Witherspoon) meets 23-year-old David McCall (Mark Wahlberg) at a Seattle nightclub, she falls in love. David is exciting and charming, and despite the wide age gap, he wins over Nicole's family -- except for her workaholic father, Steven (William Petersen), who's suspicious of David from the start. His concerns are realized when David turns out to be a violent sociopath who sees Nicole as his possession, and her family home a fortress to be invaded.
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  • Everything Sucks
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      • Everything Sucks!
    25
    2 votes

    Everything Sucks

    Set in the nostalgic era of the 1990s, Everything Sucks transports viewers back to the days of dial-up internet and VHS tapes, following the lives of high school students navigating the trials and tribulations of adolescence. The coming-of-age dramedy, which garnered critical acclaim for its authentic portrayal of teenage experiences, artfully weaves together storylines of self-discovery, friendship, and young love. Standout performances by Peyton Kennedy as Kate Messner and Jahi Di'Allo Winston as Luke O'Neil breathe life into the complex characters, making this show an engaging and heartwarming trip down memory lane.
  • Mysterious Skin
    26
    0 votes

    Mysterious Skin

     

    What to watch if you like: stories about coming to terms with trauma

     
    Mysterious Skin is a 2004 Dutch-American drama film directed by American filmmaker Gregg Araki, who also wrote the screenplay based on Scott Heim's 1996 novel of the same name. The film is Araki's eighth, premiering at the 61st Venice International Film Festival in 2004, although it was not more widely distributed until 2005.
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  • The Perks of Being a Wallflower
    27
    1 votes

    The Perks of Being a Wallflower

     

    What to watch if you like: outcasts

     
    In The Perks of Being a Wallflower, Charlie (Logan Lerman), an introverted high-school freshman, navigates through the trials and tribulations of adolescence. His world opens up when he befriends two seniors, Sam (Emma Watson) and Patrick (Ezra Miller). As they introduce him to the real world beyond textbooks and tests, Charlie grapples with first love and deep-seated secrets. A coming-of-age drama, this movie shines a spotlight on the joys and heartbreaks of growing up. Garnering critical acclaim, it won the Independent Spirit Award for Best First Feature.
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  • Derry Girls
    28
    0 votes

    Derry Girls

     

    What to watch if you like: teenage girls growing up in the 90s

     
    Set against the backdrop of 1990s Northern Ireland, the show chronicles the lives of five teenagers as they navigate the trials and tribulations of adolescence amidst a tumultuous political landscape. The ensemble cast, led by Saoirse-Monica Jackson (Erin Quinn) and Nicola Coughlan (Clare Devlin), delivers an engaging and heartwarming performance that has garnered critical acclaim, including BAFTA and British Comedy Guide Award nominations. Embracing both comedy and drama, the series effortlessly captures the essence of friendship and family bonds while addressing historical events with sensitivity.
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  • Twin Peaks: Fire Walk With Me
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      • Twin Peaks: Fire Walk With Me
    29
    1 votes

    Twin Peaks: Fire Walk With Me

     

    What to watch if you like: protagonists fighting for their lives

     
    A prequel to David Lynch's groundbreaking television series, Twin Peaks: Fire Walk With Me delves into the final seven days of Laura Palmer (Sheryl Lee). A high school student living in a small town, her life is far from simple. She's tormented by a malevolent entity, BOB (Frank Silva), and struggles with substance abuse. FBI Agents Chester Desmond (Chris Isaak) and Dale Cooper (Kyle MacLachlan) are also present, investigating a murder closely tied to Laura's impending fate. It's a surreal mystery-drama that won't let you go easily.
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  • The Virgin Suicides
    30
    1 votes

    The Virgin Suicides

     

    What to watch if you like: ambigous, eerie stories about teenage girls 

     
    In The Virgin Suicides, an enigmatic tale unfolds in a quiet suburban neighborhood. The Lisbon sisters, Lux (Kirsten Dunst), Mary (A.J. Cook), Therese (Leslie Hayman), Bonnie (Chelse Swain), and Cecilia (Hanna Hall) are the focus of fascination for a group of neighborhood boys. Guided by the strict hand of their mother (Kathleen Turner) and passive presence of their father (James Woods), these girls navigate adolescence under a heavy shroud of repression and mystery. As the film meanders through this labyrinth of teenage turmoil, it subtly explores themes of isolation, longing, and the tragic consequences of suffocating innocence. This dramatic piece is directed by Sofia Coppola, who won Best First Feature at Independent Spirit Awards for this haunting debut.
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