A favorite at international film festivals, director Stefan Krohmer's subtle, intelligent drama deals frankly with the consequences of sexual obsession in a tale revolving around Miriam (Martina Gedeck) and Andre (Peter Davor), an attractive middle-aged married couple vacationing on the Baltic Coast with their teenage son Niels (Lucas Kotaranin), and his provocative 12-year-old female friend Livia (Svea Lohde). Although Miriam prides herself on having liberal attitudes about sex, she is understandably disconcerted after she begins to suspect Livia of having a sexual relationship with handsome next-door neighbor Bill (Robert Seeliger). Inserting herself into the situation, Miriam eventually begins her own torrid affair with the charismatic Bill. Covering explosive narrative ground in a matter-of-fact manner, Summer ‘04 doesn't traffic in melodramatic suspense, but rather presents a perceptive depiction of a complicated family dynamic (with Gedeck a standout as the mother who rediscovers her sexuality). Recommended. (E. Hulse)
Summer ‘04
Koch Lorber, 97 min., in German w/English subtitles, not rated, DVD: $29.98 Volume 23, Issue 5
Summer ‘04
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