The beloved franchise The Summer I Turned Pretty is heading to the big screen with a highly anticipated movie that promises to deliver the definitive conclusion to Belly Conklin’s unforgettable summer saga. Following the emotional rollercoaster of the Prime Video series, which wrapped its third season in 2025, creator Jenny Han has stepped behind the camera as director for this feature film, co-writing the script with Sarah Kucserka to give fans the closure they’ve been craving since the books first captured hearts worldwide.

The official trailer, released in early May 2026, opens with sweeping shots of Cousins Beach bathed in golden summer light, immediately transporting viewers back to the magical yet complicated world where Belly’s journey began. Lola Tung returns as Belly, now visibly more mature and poised as she navigates adulthood. Christopher Briney reprises his role as the brooding, steadfast Conrad, while Gavin Casalegno is back as the charming yet vulnerable Jeremiah. The chemistry between the trio crackles on screen once more, with the trailer teasing intense emotional confrontations that fans have waited years to see resolved.

Central to the story is Belly’s pivotal life decision. The trailer hints at a significant proposal from Conrad, complete with a heartfelt beachside moment that echoes the romance of previous summers but carries far greater weight. Belly, now fully embracing her identity beyond the love triangle, faces the ultimate choice between the two brothers who have defined so much of her growth. Jeremiah’s arc appears more layered than ever, showing signs of acceptance mixed with lingering pain as he supports his brother while processing his own feelings.

Filming began on April 27, 2026, in Wilmington, North Carolina, standing in for the iconic Cousins Beach setting. Jenny Han has urged fans to respect set privacy after early leaks and distant TikTok videos disrupted production, emphasizing the need for focus and safety during this emotional final chapter. The movie is not slated for a 2026 release, with Han confirming it will arrive later, likely in 2027, allowing time for the polished cinematic experience the story deserves.

The film expands on the final book in Jenny Han’s trilogy while incorporating elements that couldn’t fit into the series format. Expect deeper explorations of family dynamics, with returning cast members like Jackie Chung as Laurel, Tom Everett Scott as Adam Fisher, and Rachel Blanchard as Susannah’s enduring spirit influencing the narrative. New milestones in Belly’s life — including career ambitions and personal growth — take center stage alongside the romance, making this more than just a love story but a coming-of-age culmination.

Visually, the trailer promises the lush, nostalgic aesthetic fans love: crashing waves, bonfires on the beach, late-night talks on the porch, and those signature summer outfits that feel like coming home. The score, blending original tracks with emotional ballads, heightens every moment, from tender reconciliations to tear-jerking goodbyes. Han’s direction brings an intimate, heartfelt touch, ensuring the movie honors the books’ emotional depth while delivering the cinematic scale only a feature film can provide.

For fans divided between Team Conrad and Team Jeremiah, the trailer deliberately keeps the outcome ambiguous, fueling endless speculation and debate. Will Belly choose the safe, deep connection with Conrad, or the fun, passionate spark with Jeremiah? Or does the story take an unexpected turn that redefines happiness for all three? Han has teased “another big milestone left in Belly’s journey,” leaving room for surprises that could include weddings, career breakthroughs, or even new beginnings beyond Cousins Beach.

The movie also pays tribute to the franchise’s themes of grief, first love, friendship, and self-discovery. Susannah’s legacy continues to guide the characters, with flashbacks and emotional callbacks that provide catharsis for longtime readers and viewers. Supporting characters like Steven, Taylor, and the Fisher brothers’ extended circle get meaningful moments, turning the film into a true ensemble farewell.

As production continues, excitement continues to build across social media. The announcement at the Season 3 finale red carpet created instant buzz, and the trailer has only amplified it. This big-screen conclusion represents more than closing a chapter — it’s a celebration of the summers that shaped a generation, reminding us that while seasons change, the memories and lessons of first love endure.

Whether you discovered the story through the books, the series, or are just now catching the wave, The Summer I Turned Pretty movie is set to be the emotional payoff fans deserve. With Jenny Han at the helm, stellar returning cast, and the timeless magic of Cousins Beach, this film promises laughter, tears, and the perfect summer send-off. Get ready to say goodbye — or hello again — to the place where it all began.