A Summer's Tale

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Michael P This film reminds me of watching a child wracked with indecision over a restaurant menu. Everything looks good, but suggestions sway him back and forth; knitted brow, hands wringing, he doesn’t know what he really wants, but would not offend anyone by making a choice. Deep down, he wishes someone would choose for him. Finally, he’s relieved when a fire alarm sounds, evacuating the establishment and obviating his need to choose. This film in a nutshell. Pointless. I’ll never get these two hours back. Rated 1/5 Stars •  Rated 1 out of 5 stars 07/26/25 Full Review Dominique F A movie that will make you want to kiss the lips you only like but do not love yet. Rated 4.5/5 Stars •  Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars 07/14/24 Full Review isla s This is quite a laidback watch, with a philosophical edge to it. It's somewhat thoughtful and a nice, easy watch, with a real summer holiday, escapist feel to it and its a coming of age rom com - not overly laugh out loud funny as such, though there are some pieces of amusing dialogue. I liked the beach resort setting. I'd recommend this film, yes. Rated 3.5/5 Stars •  Rated 3.5 out of 5 stars 03/31/23 Full Review Danil S A Summer's Tale (1996) is one of the four films in Éric Rohmer's Tales of the Four Seasons (Les Contes des quatre saisons). The legendary director was hailed as one of the greatest French New Wave (La Nouvelle Vague) directors of all time. His unique style of filmmaking had captivated the hearts of many people. His ability to marry realism with auteurism through his unique Rohmerian style is truly a sight to behold. With that said, A Summer's Tale (1996) is probably the best specimen of his style; no soundtrack music, no close-ups, a seaside resort, long conversations between beautiful young people (which often includes literary works, philosophy and romance). This film specifically dwells upon the theme of self-image and self worth; particularly in youthful romantic relationships. The film started pretty slowly (as if nothing was happening) but as it goes on, one would get drawn into the immersive world of A Summer's Tale without realizing it till it was over. All in all, this film would make a great viewing for people who are looking for an intelligent rom-com, and serves as a great introduction for people who are looking to get into Éric Rohmer's works for the first time. Rated 4/5 Stars •  Rated 4 out of 5 stars 07/21/22 Full Review Audience Member In thinking of director Erich Rohmer's films, certain descriptions come quickly to mind- wistful, effortless, quiet sea sides, rolling hills; and of course romances. But his romantic couplings are those of various varieties and intensities. They are embodied by people who contradict, manipulate, disappoint as well as those who are consistent (even if it's in being inconsistent), true, and who satisfy their partner's(s'?) lustful urges for the fluttering heart and erotic hookups. I would say it is Rohmer's ability to re-create life so authentically and in ways we can well relate that give them their rather effortless, subtle sense. The dialogue between lead character Gaspard and his would be lovers (Solene, Lena, & esp. Margot) is of such depth of common experience, of such realism in how these people play each other and off of each other. They are all so flaky, uncertain, and hiding to some degree behind some facade, some front they put up most likely to protect themselves but also to string others along. The women all want their local guy to be there if their #1 option isn't around, but they make sure it never gets 'serious'. But Gaspard also wants his physical pleasures, and they play on that, too.; especially Solene. She has 'principles', she says. She never sleeps with a guy on the first date/time together. But then she doesn't after that, it seems; all the more easy to string along a fool or naive boy-man. Such are the follies, frivolities and frustrations of youth. Rohmer had an uncanny skill for using the mercurial predilections of the young as a starting point for perceptive but not oppressive philosophical observations. Rohmer seems to suggest that Gaspard's youthful mistakes will make him a better man, a rather generous, hopeful, and fair sentiment. Strong work by the actors, esp. Poupad and Langlet. Lena's lovely, Solene's a sizzling slow burn, but Margot is the one you take home and try not to screw things up with. She's a keeper. But then so is the great film. 4 stars Rated 4/5 Stars •  Rated 4 out of 5 stars 01/20/23 Full Review Audience Member french movies has something unique Rated 4/5 Stars •  Rated 4 out of 5 stars 02/19/23 Full Review Read all reviews

A Summer's Tale

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