The evenings are getting cooler, the sun is setting a little earlier, and that undeniable urge to curl up under a blanket for a great movie night is kicking in. But what to watch? Before you fall into the endless scroll through streaming services, why not try a theme night?

The Swim Advantage Feature Presentation

We might be a little biased, but we think the best theme is all about the power, beauty, and fun of the water. To get you started, we’ve put together a list of our all-time favorite swimming-centric films that will inspire you, make you laugh, and remind you why we love what we do.

1. For the Underdog Story: Pride (2007)

• The Gist: Based on a true story, this inspiring film follows a determined coach in the 1970s who starts a swim team for troubled teens in a rough Philadelphia neighborhood, leading them all the way to the state championships.
• Why We Love It: It’s a powerful reminder that a pool is more than just a place to swim—it’s a place to build a community, find your purpose, and prove that with dedication (and a great coach), you can overcome anything.

2. For the Whole Family: Finding Nemo (2003)

• The Gist: A clownfish dad frantically searches the entire ocean for his lost son, meeting a cast of unforgettable aquatic characters along the way.
• Why We Love It: Do we even need to explain? It’s the home of the ultimate life mantra: “Just keep swimming!” It’s a beautiful story about facing your fears and the incredible bond between a parent and child.

3. For the Grown-Ups’ On a Clear Day (2005)

• The Gist: After being laid off, a 55-year-old Glasgow man searching for a new sense of purpose decides to take on the monumental challenge of swimming the English Channel.
• Why We Love It: This is for every adult who has ever thought, “Is it too late for me to start something new?” This wonderful film proves that it’s never too late to set a huge goal, conquer a fear, and redefine your life.

4. For a Touch of Old Hollywood Glamour: Million Dollar Mermaid (1952)

• The Gist: The legendary Esther Williams stars in this dazzling biopic about Australian swimmer Annette Kellerman, who overcame a childhood disability to become a world-famous synchronized swimming star.
• Why We Love It: The synchronized swimming scenes are absolutely spectacular! It’s a testament to the grace, strength, and pure artistry that can be found in the water.

5. For a Bit of Sci-Fi Fun: Cocoon (1985)

• The Gist: A group of senior citizens discovers that the swimming pool at a nearby empty estate has some truly magical, rejuvenating powers, thanks to some friendly alien visitors.
• Why We Love It: It’s a sweet, funny, and heartwarming film that captures the pure joy and healing power of the water. We can’t promise alien cocoons, but we can promise our pool will make you feel great!

Bonus Pick: Our Favorite TV Coach

Ted Lasso

• Okay, hear us out! It’s not about swimming, but it’s 100% about what makes a great coach and a great team. Ted’s relentless optimism, his focus on personal growth over just winning, and his ability to make everyone feel valued… that’s the exact energy our instructors strive to bring to the pool deck every single day. We’re all about that “Believe” sign.

Now for the Ultimate Movie-Watching Experience…

Cozying up on the couch to watch these films is fantastic, but what if you could combine that movie-night magic with the actual feeling of being in the water?

Introducing our monthly community event: Flick & Float!

Once a month, we turn The Swim Advantage into your own personal aquatic movie theater. We dim the lights, put a family-friendly favorite up on the big screen, and invite you to watch from the comfort of a floatie in our warm, indoor pool. It’s a totally unique and memorable family night out.

And don’t worry—we promise we are never, ever showing Jaws.

See You at the Movies (and the Pool)!

We hope this list inspires your next family movie night. And when you’re ready for the ultimate cinematic splash, check out our Events page for the date and movie title of our next Flick & Float night.

Grab your favorite floatie—we’ll save you a spot at The Swim Advantage in Orland Park!