Where to watch Cruel Summer in Australia
Watch now on Prime VideoPrime Video
Subscription
All seasons may not be available on every service.
Streaming availability data from JustWatch.
About Cruel Summer
Taking place over three summers - 1993, 1994, 1995 - in a small Texas town, a beautiful popular teen, Kate, is abducted and, seemingly unrelated, a girl, Jeanette, goes from being a sweet, awkward outlier to the most popular girl in town and, by ’95, the most despised person in America.
- Year
- 2021-
- Genres
- Drama, Mystery, Thriller
- Runtime
- 45 min
- Seasons
- 2
- Top cast
- Chiara Aurelia, Olivia Holt, Froy Gutierrez
What our critics think
Independent reviews from the Compare TV editorial team.
Review Team
★★★★★4/5
Cruel Summer unfolds like a finely crafted thriller, taking viewers on a tumultuous journey through the lives of its two central characters over three pivotal summers. The writing is sharp, capturing the essence of adolescence while exploring darker themes of abduction and social dynamics. The performances, particularly from the leads, are compelling and nuanced, bringing depth to their respective transformations. The series skillfully balances suspense with emotional resonance, making it a standout in the teen drama genre. Its non-linear storytelling invites viewers to piece together the truth, creating an engaging viewing experience. Overall, Cruel Summer is a thought-provoking exploration of identity and consequence, well worth your time.
Editor Team
★★★★★3/5
Cruel Summer is a mixed bag that draws you in with its intriguing premise but sometimes falters in execution. The premise of two girls’ lives colliding over three summers is fascinating, but the pacing can drag at times, leaving viewers wanting more action. The performances are generally solid, especially from the lead actresses, who manage to convey the emotional weight of their characters’ journeys. However, the series occasionally leans too heavily into melodrama, which may not resonate with all audiences. It’s a show that sparks conversation, particularly around themes of popularity and morality, but it might not be everyone’s cup of tea. If you enjoy character-driven narratives with a hint of suspense, give it a shot, but set your expectations accordingly.
How viewers describe this
- gripping
- complex
- engaging
- thought-provoking
- suspenseful
- emotional
- mixed
- nuanced
- dramatic
- captivating
- intense
- reflective
Cruel Summer seasons
Streaming Charts
The JustWatch Streaming Charts are calculated by user activity from the last 24 hours.
| Rank | Title | Highest Rank | Streaming |
|---|---|---|---|
| 01 | 01 | ||
| 02 | 02 | ||
| 03 | 03 | ||
| 04 | 05 | ||
| 05 | 07 | ||
| 06 | 08 | ||
| 07 | 13 | ||
| 08 | 17 | ||
| 09 | 22 | ||
| 10 | 23 |
Shows like Cruel Summer
TV and movies like Cruel Summer
Got a question about Cruel Summer?
Is Cruel Summer worth watching?
Yes, Cruel Summer is worth watching for its gripping narrative and complex character arcs. The series intricately explores themes of popularity, trauma, and the consequences of choices, making it a compelling watch for fans of psychological drama.
What is Cruel Summer really about?
Cruel Summer is about the abduction of a popular teenager, Kate, and the subsequent transformation of another girl, Jeanette, from an awkward outlier to the most popular and then despised person in America over three summers in the 1990s. It intricately weaves their stories together, revealing deep emotional layers and societal commentary.
Is Cruel Summer suitable for children?
Cruel Summer is not suitable for children due to its mature themes, including abduction and the psychological effects of trauma. Parental guidance is advised for younger viewers.
What happens at the end of Cruel Summer?
In the finale of Cruel Summer, significant revelations unfold about the intertwined fates of Kate and Jeanette, culminating in a shocking twist that redefines the viewer's understanding of both characters. This ending leaves audiences pondering the nature of truth and perception.
Where can I watch Cruel Summer in Australia?
In Australia, Cruel Summer is available for streaming on platforms like Amazon Prime Video and Hulu. Check your local listings to confirm availability.
Is it scary?
While Cruel Summer is not a horror series, it does contain suspenseful and tense moments that may evoke fear or anxiety, particularly surrounding the themes of abduction and social isolation.
Is there a sequel to Cruel Summer?
As of now, there is no official announcement regarding a sequel to Cruel Summer. However, the series has been well-received, which may lead to further developments in the future.
What films are similar to Cruel Summer?
If you enjoyed Cruel Summer, you might also like films and series such as 'Pretty Little Liars', 'The Perks of Being a Wallflower', and 'Thirteen', which explore themes of adolescence, societal pressure, and complex relationships.