After nearly a decade in front of the camera, actress and comedian Jillian Bell is set to make her feature directorial debut with the comedy Summer of 69. The film, produced by American High for Hulu, boasts an impressive cast led by Saturday Night Live’s Chloe Fineman and will feature Nicole Byer (‘American Society of Magical Negroes’), among other comedic talents.
Summer of 69 revolves around a socially awkward high school senior who hires an exotic dancer to help her seduce her longtime crush before graduation. The story explores themes of self-confidence, acceptance, and the transition into adulthood through unexpected friendships and comedic mishaps.
READ: ‘Power Book II: Ghost’ Fourth and Final Season Sets Record-Breaking Debut on Starz
Charlie Day (It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia), Sam Morelos (That ’90s Show), Natalie Morales (The Morning Show), Alex Moffat (Saturday Night Live), Paula Pell (Girls5eva), Liza Koshy (A Family Affair), Matt Cornett (High School Musical: The Musical: The Series), Fernando Carsa (Acapulco), and Amalia Yoo (Grand Army) round out the cast.
The screenplay, crafted by Liz Nico, Jules Bryne, and Bell herself, sets the stage for a memorable teen comedy. Jeremy Garelick, Will Phelps, and Molle DeBartolo will produce for American High, with Axelle Azoulay and Matt Sacca serving as associate producers. Production is set to commence in Syracuse, NY, this month.
Bell expressed her excitement about stepping into the director’s role. “It’s always been my dream to direct,” Bell shared. “And I am thrilled to be telling a story about female friendship with a cast of the most talented and funny humans.”
Founded in 2017, American High specializes in provocative teen comedies and has produced hits like Big Time Adolescence, The Binge, and Crush. Their first-look deal with Hulu continues to generate popular films, with Summer of 69 set to join this successful catalog.