Veteran actors Steve Guttenberg, known for his role in Police Academy, and Christie Brinkley from Vacation, have signed on to star in the upcoming family comedy, “American Summer.” This coming-of-age film is directed by Michael W. Gray, who also co-wrote the script with Jennifer B. White.
Filming for “American Summer” is currently underway in Northern New Jersey and is scheduled to continue until mid-October. The movie tells the story of Mikey, played by Guttenberg, as he reminisces about a pivotal summer in his childhood. Set in his younger years, the film delves into a summer filled with first experiences: meeting his dream girl Kelly, landing a spot on the travel baseball team, and navigating his first job. These formative experiences unfold against the backdrop of his father’s absence while on a military mission overseas, marking a significant period of growth from boyhood.
Logan Gray takes on the role of Young Mikey, while Mia Talerico, recognized from Disney’s “Good Luck Charlie,” portrays Young Kelly. The ensemble cast also includes Dan Lauria, Cullen Moss, Erinn Ruth, Michael Cuomo (“Nanny”), Ellen Toland (Inside the Rain), Stephen Krahel, and former baseball stars Lee Mazzilli and Luis Sojo. Adding to the fresh faces are newcomers Callie Reese (“What Breaks the Ice”), Cash Chisum, Jaba Keh, Carter J Thomas, Max Malas, Maximus Virgili, Chance Stout, and Noodle, the family puppy who is said to play a heroic role in the film.
Director Michael W. Gray shared his vision for the film, stating, “‘American Summer’ is a tale for a multi-generational audience to enjoy together. I look forward to sharing the film with the world as I want to bring people together to laugh and feel in their own way.”
Steve Guttenberg also expressed his enthusiasm for the project: “I’m excited to be working on such a feel-good movie. The story requires the creative team to put together a narrative that is not only universal, but unique in its own style. ‘American Summer’ has the potential to bring generations together, and that’s what audiences ask for in a great family film.”
Gray (known for “A Birder’s Guide to Everything” and “Jamie Marks Is Dead”) and Michael Cuomo are producing the film. Guttenberg, Brinkley, Brian Dubin, and Stephen Krahel are serving as executive producers. Josh Folan and Danny Ward are co-producers.
“American Summer” is a collaborative effort between Relentless Filmz, led by Gray, and Brooklyn Owl Pictures, under Cuomo. Gray is represented by Ramo Law, while Guttenberg is repped by Vault Entertainment and CAA. Brinkley’s representation includes Artist Brand Alliance and Untitled Entertainment.
Just Beyond Where To Watch typical summer comedies, “American Summer” aims to offer a heartwarming and relatable story of growing up, family, and the unforgettable moments that shape our lives. Fans eager to see Steve Guttenberg and Christie Brinkley in this family-friendly movie will need to keep an eye out for release updates.
