Spring break hits UT next week, and there’s no better way to embrace the season of sun, fun and freedom than with a movie marathon. Whether plans involve a beach getaway or staying close to home, The Daily Texan compiled three movies that represent different classic spring break vibes: chaotic, comedic and wholesome. 

“Spring Breakers”

This iconic 2012 American crime comedy follows a group of college friends (Selena Gomez, Rachel Korine, Vanessa Hudgens, Ashley Benson) to St. Petersburg, Florida, after they pull a heist to fund their long-awaited spring break trip. When things go south, a drug dealer named Alien (James Franco) saves them. Anticipation follows the girls around Florida as they partake in a variety of dangerous activities with Alien. The out-of-pocket characters make it a cult classic for those who appreciate dark humor and over-the-top drama. As it develops, a dreamlikeness descends over the plot, making it a twisted spring break fantasy.  The dark, unhinged nature of “Spring Breakers” portrays the chaos of an out-of-control spring break. 

“22 Jump Street”

In this “21 Jump Street” sequel, cops Jenko (Channing Tatum) and Schmidt (Jonah Hill) return as college students. The duo goes undercover to bust the supplier of a new drug, supervised by Captain Dickson (Ice Cube). The film delivers plenty of laughs as the duo navigates a textbook college experience, ultimately leading them to spring break. The two venture to Miami, where they face off with ‘The Ghost’ (Peter Stormare) and his gang in a high-stakes drug bust. The action-packed 2014 comedy captures the chaos and fun of a spring break getaway with fun beach parties, fights and outrageous humor. The unforgettable chemistry between Tatum and Hill makes them so funny to watch on screen, serving as a mindless watch to unwind to. 

“Where the Boys Are ” (1984) 

This timeless, feel-good classic takes viewers on a spunky ride to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, during spring break in the ‘80s. The movie follows a group of college girls (Lorna Luft, Lisa Hartman, Wendy Schaal, Lynn-Holly Johnson) as they search for love, thrills and adventure. Despite reflecting outdated ideologies, the film remains a nostalgic look at carefree, dramatic moments that defined the era’s youth culture. The retro charm of “Where the Boys Are” captures the essence of the legendary spring break experience.