Watch Summer of Love
- MA
- 2001
- 1 hr 35 min
-
5.1 (57)
Summer of Love is a 2001 coming-of-age drama film that follows three best friends in their journey of self-discovery over the course of a single summer in New England during the late 1960s. Scott Corfield portrays Danny, the group's leader and resident bad boy. He's a charismatic and daring young man who spends most of his time talking drugs and hooking up with different girls. Ryan Miller plays Paul, the more reserved and practical member of the group. He's planning on enrolling in college soon and finding a stable job, but is constantly tempted by Danny's reckless lifestyle. Finally, Natalie Laing is Diane, the only female member of the trio and the object of affection for both Danny and Paul. She's an intelligent and creative girl who yearns for more than the small town life she's grown up in.
The film takes place during 1969 when the world was in the midst of social and political upheaval, and the group's journey is deeply affected by the climate of the time. From peace rallies and anti-war protests to music festivals and drug experimentation, Summer of Love accurately captures the spirit of the era.
The film also explores the complex relationships between the three friends as they navigate their newfound independence and burgeoning sexuality. Danny and Diane's flirtations escalate, much to the chagrin of the more reserved Paul, who finds himself deeply in love with Diane. Meanwhile, Danny's past catches up with him in the form of a local drug dealer, leading to a harrowing climax that leaves each of the characters forever changed.
The cinematography is strikingly beautiful, capturing the lush green forests and rolling hills of New England with an almost nostalgic sensibility. Meanwhile, the film's soundtrack is a veritable time capsule of the music of the era, featuring tracks from artists like Bob Dylan, The Doors, and Jimi Hendrix.
At its core, Summer of Love is a timeless tale of friendship, romance, and growing up. It perfectly captures the zeitgeist of the late 1960s while telling a story that still feels relevant today.
Overall, Summer of Love is a must-watch for fans of coming-of-age films, period pieces, and anyone interested in the societal changes that were taking place during the late 1960s. It's a poignant and deeply affecting film that will stay with viewers long after the credits roll.