Cousins Beach is Calling: ‘The Summer I Turned Pretty’ Movie Unveils First Look as Filming Begins

By sparkchronicle.com May 14, 2026 0

Author: M. Shah

WILMINGTON, NC, May 14, 2026 — The wait is officially over for “Team Conrad” and “Team Jeremiah” alike. Prime Video has sent shockwaves through social media today by releasing the first official look at the highly anticipated The Summer I Turned Pretty movie. The reveal, featuring lead stars Lola Tung and Christopher Briney, confirms that production is officially underway in Wilmington, North Carolina.

The announcement comes just months after the series finale aired in September 2025, proving that the appetite for Jenny Han’s sun-drenched romance is stronger than ever. As the franchise transitions from a hit streaming series to a feature film, the stakes for Belly Conklin’s heart have never been higher.

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The First Look: A Selfie That Said Everything

The “first look” wasn’t a high-fashion promotional shot, but something far more intimate that resonated with the show’s “Powerhouse” digital fanbase. Prime Video shared a casual selfie taken by Lola Tung and Christopher Briney on the set.

The Vibe: Looking relaxed and sun-kissed, the duo appeared back in character as Belly and Conrad. The caption simply read: “Did you miss them? The Summer I Turned Pretty movie is now in production.”
The Reaction: Within minutes, the post garnered millions of likes, with fans dissecting every detail—from the background scenery to the actors’ styling—for clues about the movie’s timeline relative to the books.

A “Protected Bubble”: The Plea for Privacy

While the excitement is at an all-time high, the production has faced significant challenges with fans attempting to track down filming locations in Wilmington and Southport. On May 5, the official production account and author Jenny Han issued a rare “Powerhouse” plea for privacy.

“We’re working hard to create a protected bubble to make the best movie possible. Please help us protect the magic of Cousins until it’s ready to be shared.” — Official TSITP Production Statement.

Han further explained on Instagram Stories that set visits and leaked videos disrupt the actors’ focus and create safety concerns. The team is currently filming under a “working title” to maintain a low profile, though local enthusiasts have already spotted familiar trucks near the beloved “beach house” locations.

What We Know About the Plot

The movie is set to be the definitive “concluding chapter” of the franchise. Following the events of Season 3 (which concluded with Belly choosing Conrad over Jeremiah), the film is expected to explore the “happily ever after” or the final hurdles the couple faces.

Returning Cast: Alongside Tung and Briney, Gavin Casalegno (Jeremiah), Sean Kaufman (Steven), and Rain Spencer (Taylor) are all confirmed to return.
The Director: Jenny Han, the visionary behind the trilogy, is reportedly taking a hands-on role in directing key sequences, ensuring the film stays true to the “Powerhouse” emotional core of her novels.

Release Timeline: When Can We Watch?

While Prime Video has not locked a specific date, industry patterns suggest a Summer 2027 release. With filming beginning in late April 2026 and expected to run through August, the film will enter a lengthy post-production phase to capture that perfect “Cousins Beach” aesthetic.

Stage	Estimated Date
Filming Kick-off	April 27, 2026
Wrap Date	August 2026
Post-Production	Late 2026 – Spring 2027
Expected Release	June/July 2027

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is this a sequel to Season 3 or a remake?

It is a sequel film that continues the story from where the Prime Video series left off. It serves as the final installment of the live-action franchise.

2. Where is the movie being filmed?

Production has returned to its “home” in Wilmington, North Carolina, which serves as the fictional Cousins Beach.

3. Why did the cast get a “pay bump” for the movie?

Reports from Deadline suggest that while the film was an “option” in their initial contracts, the massive success of the show led to a “Powerhouse” salary adjustment, with the lead trio reportedly earning around $300,000 each for the feature.

4. Will there be a Season 4?

No. Jenny Han has confirmed that this movie will be the final chapter for Belly, Conrad, and Jeremiah.

Final Thoughts: One Last Summer

The start of production on The Summer I Turned Pretty movie marks the beginning of the end for a generation-defining romance. As Lola Tung and Christopher Briney step back into the shoes of Belly and Conrad, fans are preparing for one last emotional “Powerhouse” journey to the beach.

Are you happy that the story is ending with a movie instead of another season? Who are you rooting for in this final chapter? Share your thoughts in the comment box below!