A Summer Story

I found this film on ebay and was the only person who bid on it, many people are evidently missing out on never seeing this beautiful film. I wasn't sure what to expect cause I bought it on a whim because of the ratings it had gotten in some review books and because James Wilby is in it who I think is one of the most underrated actors alive. Imogen Stubbs is just wonderful, you really feel her pain. You also feel his - he lives his life regretting the choices he made and doesn't seem very happy. I don't want to give anything away but I can't recommend this film enough. It's beautifully directed, top notch acting, and for such a simple story it's amazingly effective. Anyone whose ever loved and lost will feel what the characters are feeling in this film! It will make you cry aswell, otherwise you don't have a heart. ;-)

In 1922, a man returns to the rural countryside with his wife remember a pre-war love affair. In 1904, lawyer Mr. Ashton (James Wilby) and his friend Dr. Garton from London are walking. Ashton twists his ankle and encounters country girl Megan David (Imogen Stubbs). She brings them to her auntie Mrs. Narracombe (Susannah York) and her possessive son Joe (Jerome Flynn). They aren't really related. Narracombe took her in after her mother's death. Garton takes off the next morning. Ashton is intrigued and he starts an affair with Megan. It drives Joe jealous who expected to marry her.

It's a heart breaking romance. It's kind of a reverse romance. Ashton's weakness is the bane of this movie. I never really liked the chemistry of the couple because of his character. I would like to follow her story more than his story. The ending is harsh but that's what so good about this movie.

If you are thinking of watching this movie, make sure you have a box of tissues ready - because unless you are emotionally constipated this film will make you cry. I watched it on my return from the hospital after giving birth to my daughter and I wept buckets. It is beautifully acted, particularly by Imogen Stubbs. I can't understand why we do not see more of this talented actress. The music by George Delerue matches and enhances the heart rending story, and sounds pretty darn good without the film, too. The story is about an upper class young man(James Wilby) who, whilst on a walking holiday, falls in love with a beautiful young farm girl. I really don't want to give any more of the plot away. I loved it. If you never enjoy romance, or poignant tales of lost chances and heartbreak, then you probably won't love it!

I watch this gem about twice a year, when I feel like having a good cry. This film truly transports me to another time and place.

There are timeless morality issues dealt with in the story, and the unforgettable ending gives a person goose bumps. Seeing the film inspired me to read the story it's adapted from(The AppleTree.) There are some differences between the story and the film, of course, and the endings are somewhat different, although the overall idea is on the same wavelength. I feel the ending of the film is very,very strong and extremely suited to the film genre as compared to the written page.

The music is exquisite. Not only does it cast a beautiful spell from the very first note, but it remains in your mind long after the film is over.

A precious, precious film.

Too many people are missing a great story and a great movie.

Since I discovered this movie during the Summer of 1996, I've watched it about once a year. I was completely drawn into the story and the characters. So beautiful and so sad. I could not believe the way things ended. I was so very, very sad.

I wish it was out on DVD, but I can still watch my old VHS copy and have heartaches just the same. I gave it a "10" as I am seldom "moved" by this type of story. Being an action, sci-fi, and thriller type of guy, I think it speaks highly of the film that I enjoy watching this story over and over.

I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.