Summer 1993
- Summer 1993 review by JA
The story of a child, Frida, who has lost her mother and taken to her aunt and uncle’s home to live with them and their child who is younger than Frida. A delightful account of how Frida comes to terms with her grief, which is not easy for the family as a whole. The film is full of gentle humour and charm. Beautifully acted and filmed.
3 out of 3 members found this review helpful.
Truthful and life-affirming
- Summer 1993 review by TE
This is a superb portrayal of the anger and confusion that accompanies bereavement, in this case the central character is a young child (a wonderful performance).
Every stage of the grieving and adjustment process is credibly presented, and the film rings true from beginning to end, reflecting the personal history of the director.
The ending is suitably cathartic and emotionally powerful. Simply a great piece of film-making.
2 out of 2 members found this review helpful.
Brilliant insight into a child's mind
- Summer 1993 review by CP Customer
This is a shining example of how a S L O W film which is not action-packed can evoke feelings and grip the viewer. It also shows how hard it is for parents (or guardians/foster parents) to see beyond behaviour and look behind what the child is doing to find what the child is feeling. Oten the child will not be conscious of what is going on for them, but will skip the intellectual enquiry and go straight to the behaviour. Or they know what is wrong but do not dare to express themselves in words; and if the adult is not able to facilitate the talking communication in both directions , the child will produce the uncomfortable behaviour in an attempt to get help. A very moving observation of human behaviour which taught me a lot. Loved it!
1 out of 2 members found this review helpful.
cold
- Summer 1993 review by AER
Usually I am drawn to films like this but I felt locked out of this one. It was well-crafted but it bypassed me.
0 out of 0 members found this review helpful.
Wonderful wonderful!
- Summer 1993 review by FS
This was one of the best bits of film making I've seen for a very long time. I've been a fan of independent, particularly European films for many decades.
The sparse naturalistic soundscape, the subtly of interplay between the characters was sensitive and hugely enjoyable.
Exceptional praise due to the incredible 2 girls who are the lead actors and who carry the whole film so beautifully.
I'd love to have seen this on the big screen and wish there were more of this genre and quality in our cinemas.
0 out of 0 members found this review helpful.
Tender and heart-achingly natural depiction of childhood
- Summer 1993 review by CC
A beautifully observed semi-autobiographical film of a young child's journey as she gradually comes to terms with her mother's death and finds acceptance, and even love, in her new family.
The director's ability to capture so many natural and authentic-feeling moments of childhood play and family interactions is remarkable and a joy to watch. Nothing very momentous happens, and yet it is so affecting and touched me in a profound way.
0 out of 0 members found this review helpful.
Stunning Child Actors
- Summer 1993 review by Peter B
A beautiful film with such authentic young actors. The pain of bereavement in childhood and the angry behaviour that can make life so difficult for those trying to help. There is no sugar-coating here, just life proving difficult for the aunt and uncle trying their best to help. `The young couple show such patience, sense and compassion. Heart-breaking, but ultimately very real to life. Reminded me of the early years with my 7-year-old step-daughter, now aged 51 and living down the road from us with husband and our two lovely granddaughters. Patience and playing the long game are key.
0 out of 0 members found this review helpful.
A beautiful film
- Summer 1993 review by RG
A real gem of a film, beautifully directed & the two young girls are a revelation as actors. Strongly recommended
0 out of 0 members found this review helpful.