In the sweltering heat of a Chicago summer, Pools emerges as a heartfelt gem that captures the messy beauty of youth, grief, and self-discovery. Directed and written by Sam Hayes in his feature debut, this 2025 dramedy is a love letter to those fleeting nights where chaos and clarity collide. With a runtime of 99 minutes, Pools balances breezy rebellion with profound emotional depth, anchored by stellar performances from Odessa A’zion and Ariel Winter, two actresses who shine brightly in this coming-of-age tale. From the moment the film opens, it’s clear Hayes has crafted something special—a story that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly modern.
Odessa A’zion, whom I’ve adored since her raw, magnetic turn in Netflix’s Grand Army, delivers a stand out performance as Kennedy, a college sophomore teetering on the edge of expulsion. A’zion infuses Kennedy with a captivating blend of sharp wit, vulnerability, and restless energy. She’s the heartbeat of the film, carrying the weight of her character’s grief over her late father. Whether she’s sketching in her notebook or diving into a stranger’s pool, A’zion makes Kennedy feel like someone you’ve known forever.
Ariel Winter, another personal favorite, brings a delicate complexity to Delaney, Kennedy’s estranged former friend. Known for her work in Modern Family, Winter proves her dramatic chops here, portraying a character who’s both guarded and yearning for connection. Together, A’zion and Winter elevate the film’s emotional core, making their dynamic one of the standout elements.
Sam Hayes’ direction is a revelation, blending the vibrant energy of ‘80s teen comedies with a modern, introspective edge. Drawing inspiration from films like The Breakfast Club and Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, Hayes crafts a narrative that’s as much about sneaking into luxurious backyard pools as it is about navigating the murky waters of young adulthood. Hayes’ ability to balance mischief with meaning ensures Pools never feels like a shallow dip—it’s a deep, refreshing plunge into the complexities of growing up.
The film’s premise—a night of pool-hopping through lavish estates—starts as a rebellious escape from the stifling heat and Kennedy’s looming academic failure. But as the night unfolds, it becomes a metaphor for Kennedy’s search for meaning in the wake of her father’s death. Hayes weaves this emotional thread with care, never letting the heavier themes drown out the film’s youthful energy.
Pools is a fantastic film – it captures the exhilarating, heartbreaking, and utterly human experience of figuring out who you are when the world feels like it’s falling apart. Whether you’re drawn to its vibrant energy, its emotional depth, or its irresistible cast, Pools is a must-see that will leave you feeling like you’ve just taken a perfect dive into the deep end. It’s a film that reminds us that sometimes, the wildest nights are the ones that help us find our way.
- Email: neill@outloudculture.com
- Socials: @frazer.live
- @neill.outloud
