How ‘The Summer I Turned Pretty’ Winked at Gen X and Millennials

"The Summer I Turned Pretty," an Amazon Prime young adult drama, has been praised for its nostalgic references to previous generations' pop culture. The show's showrunner, Jenny Han, carefully curated the music to evoke a sense of nostalgia among Gen X and Millennial audiences. The soundtrack features songs that were popular during the childhood and teenage years of these older generations, creating a shared cultural experience for viewers. This strategy helps to bridge the generational gap and appeals to a wider audience, making the show more relatable and engaging. By incorporating these cultural touchstones, "The Summer I Turned Pretty" demonstrates a thoughtful approach to storytelling, recognizing the importance of connecting with multiple generations. This narrative technique not only enhances the viewing experience but also highlights the show's ability to resonate with a diverse range of viewers, fostering a sense of community and shared understanding.