Adapted from Cesare Pavese’s 1949 novel, ‘The Beautiful Summer’ written and directed by Laura Luchetti offers an evocative portrayal of self-discovery, longing, and sensual awakening. Set in 1938 preceding World War II in Turin, Italy. This coming-of-age story follows Ginia (Yile Yara Vianello), a young seamstress living with her brother Severino (Nicolas Maupas) in a modest apartment.
Ginia and Severino are relaxing at the lakeside with friends when Amelia (Deva Cassel) recognising one of them, swims over to join the group. Ginia is instantly allured by Amelia’s beauty and confidence, and both are curious of the other. Amelia is a nude model for painters. Severino is openly disdainful of Amelia’s choice of occupation, whereas Ginia finds herself intrigued by it.
Early in the film Amelia offers Ginia to watch her be painted, Ginia shyly declines and instead peers through the glass outside. Amelia introduces Ginia to a bohemian world that ignites her imagination. Ginia has her first romantic experience with the painter Guido (Alessandro Piavani) and finds herself curious to model also. The line “I want someone to look at me and show me who I am” reflects Ginia’s journey of self-exploration; as well as a kind of consenting voyeurism and exhibitionism, as a form of communication. Seeing and being seen. Underlying a foundational question- “Who’s vision do we wish to be cast by?”
The film is an emotive tapestry exploring jealousy, control, love, loss, desire, and practicality, with complexity. Yile Yara Vianello offers authenticity to the twists and turns of her characters journey, where polarity emerges at a middle pathway that is both authentic and refreshing.
Diego Romero’s cinematography is exquisite in its rendering of Turin’s architecture, landscape, and the casts interplay among them. The subtle shake of the camera in certain shots, and the focus on physical actions contribute to the film’s intimacy and tactile quality. The transition from summer to autumn is conveyed in its fleeting glory, echoing the themes of love and loss.
Autumnal hues are accented by colourist Andrea Baracca, and harmonious choices amongst the art, costume, and make-up departments offer stylistic cohesion that enriches the story. The chemistry between Yile Yara Vianello and Deva Cassel is tantalising. There is a tenderness between their characters, and it’s as if they are both holding a delicate secret together. The pensive piano scores composed by Francesco Cerasi mirror Ginia’s inner landscape, as she navigates her feelings, and choices.
If you like your storylines packaged and labelled neatly, I do not recommend this film. However, if you are like me and enjoy a storyline that feels more like a dance than a march, you will be captivated by the world Luchetti has created.
To book tickets to this or other films, click https://italianfilmfestival.com.au/films/iff24-the-beautiful-summer
This review also appears on It’s On The House. Check out more reviews at Whats The Show to see what else is on in your town.
