The Beautiful Summer (La Bella Estate), directed by Laura Luchetti, is a coming-of-age drama set in 1938 Turin. The film follows seventeen-year-old Ginia (Yile Yara Vianello), who moves to the city with her brother Severino (Nicolas Maupas) in search of a better life. Struggling with the financial constraints of their new life, Ginia works as a seamstress while Severino flits between jobs.
Ginia’s life takes a dramatic turn when she meets Amelia (Deva Cassel), a striking and free-spirited model who poses nude for artists. Amelia introduces Ginia to a vibrant, bohemian community of painters, including Rodrigues (Adrien Dewitte) and Guido (Alessandro Piavani). Drawn to Amelia’s boldness and sensuality, Ginia begins to explore her own identity and desires. As she becomes involved with the artists and contemplates posing nude, Ginia’s journey through self-discovery unfolds against the backdrop of a city under the shadow of a rising fascist regime.
The film captures the tumultuous experience of first love and sexual awakening through Ginia’s transformative summer, marked by both excitement and emotional complexity. Featuring poignant performances by Vianello and Cassel, The Beautiful Summer explores the intricacies of adolescence and the profound impact of a single life-changing encounter.
The Beautiful Summer is often billed as a lesbian drama, but the sapphic romance seems almost tertiary to the period drama. It also engages in some clichés that may have been typical during the past mid-century but have slowly fallen away, bringing somewhat unrealistic interpersonal conflict to the fore as a show of attraction. While it’s certainly not on the same level as Bound or But I’m A Cheerleader in terms of lesbian romance flicks, The Beautiful Summer is a stunning, dreamy coming-of-age story set in an immaculate recreation of Fascist Italy. Public library patrons interested in interwar period dramas or Italian films will want to see The Beautiful Summer. Highly Recommended.
How can The Beautiful Summer be integrated into public libraries’ collection development?
The Beautiful Summer would be a valuable addition to public libraries, particularly in sections focused on coming-of-age stories, period dramas, or LGBTQ+ narratives. Its exploration of self-discovery, identity, and relationships in the context of 1938 Turin would appeal to viewers interested in historical fiction, Italian cinema, or films that explore themes of sexual awakening and personal growth. Libraries could target it to readers who enjoy coming-of-age dramas or those studying the social and cultural dynamics of pre-WWII Europe.
What college courses and majors could benefit from using The Beautiful Summer?
This film would be particularly beneficial for students in courses related to film studies, history, gender studies, LGBTQ+ studies, and Italian or European history. It could serve as a resource in classes focusing on the cultural and political landscape of 1930s Europe, particularly the rise of fascism in Italy. It would also be useful in courses examining the evolution of queer cinema or the portrayal of lesbian relationships in film. Additionally, it could enhance discussions in classes that explore coming-of-age narratives in cinema.
How could Parks and Recreation programs use The Beautiful Summer in their educational initiatives?
Parks and Recreation programs could incorporate The Beautiful Summer into specialized screenings or educational events that focus on history, art, or personal identity. For example, the film could be part of a series exploring historical period dramas, or it could be used in discussions about the complexities of adolescence and sexual identity. The themes of personal growth and self-discovery might resonate with programs aimed at youth or young adults, particularly in LGBTQ+ inclusive settings or cultural awareness programs.
What are the Public Performance Rights (PPR) considerations for screening The Beautiful Summer?
As with any film, obtaining Public Performance Rights (PPR) would be necessary for any public screenings of The Beautiful Summer, whether in a university, community center, or library. It is essential to check with the film’s distributor to acquire the proper rights and permissions for screening the film publicly. This is particularly important for educational or public events where a broader audience is involved.
How could The Beautiful Summer enhance special events on college campuses?
The Beautiful Summer could enhance special events on college campuses by providing a poignant, visually captivating film that explores themes of adolescence, identity, and historical context. It would work well as part of a film festival, accompanied by discussions or panels on gender, sexuality, and Italian history. The film could also be featured in events that focus on LGBTQ+ awareness, diversity, and self-discovery, offering a rich starting point for dialogue and reflection among students.
Why is The Beautiful Summer a strong candidate for movie licensing?
The Beautiful Summer is a strong candidate for movie licensing due to its compelling storytelling, its intersection of historical drama with LGBTQ+ themes, and its focus on self-discovery during a pivotal period of history. Its beautiful portrayal of a turbulent summer in 1938 Turin, coupled with its focus on first love and identity, makes it a versatile addition to educational and film licensing collections. The film would attract viewers interested in historical period dramas, LGBTQ+ narratives, and coming-of-age stories, which ensures its broad appeal in both educational and commercial contexts.