Watch Summerfield

Summerfield is a charming and endearing Australian drama film from 1977, directed by Ken Hannam, starring Nick Tate, John Waters, and Elizabeth Alexander. Set in a rural Australian town in the 1940s, the film follows the life of Tom and Wendy, a couple who have lost their only child in a tragic accident. They live in a small community where everyone knows each other's business and the gossip never stops.

Tom is a farmer who struggles with his grief and disillusionment, and he leans more and more towards alcohol for comfort. Wendy, on the other hand, is a schoolteacher, who tries to keep her spirits high by focusing on her work and her relationships with her students.

Their lives are changed forever when a young boy named Robbie, who is the spitting image of their deceased son, comes into their lives. They become obsessed with the boy and begin to believe that he is their son reincarnated. The couple's intense need to believe that Robbie is their son leads to a series of dramatic events that put their own relationship, as well as their relationships with others, on edge.

The film is a poignant and sensitive exploration of grief and how different people deal with it. At its core, Summerfield is a touching love story between Tom and Wendy, who must navigate their way through their own pain and through the complex relationships they have with other people in the community.

Nick Tate and Elizabeth Alexander both deliver powerful performances as Tom and Wendy, respectively. Tate is especially convincing as the broken and vulnerable Tom who feels lost and adrift after the loss of his child. He conveys a deep sense of emotion and pain, making it easy for the audience to empathize with him.

The supporting cast is also excellent, with John Waters delivering a standout performance as the town doctor, Dr. Cope. Waters brings humor and heart to the role, making him a memorable and lovable character.

The film's setting and cinematography are also noteworthy. The Australian outback is a beautiful and haunting backdrop for the story, with its wide open spaces and rugged terrain. The film captures the beauty of rural life in Australia and the way that communities are tightly knit and interconnected.

Overall, Summerfield is a moving and engaging drama that explores the complexities of grief and the importance of human connection. The film's realistic portrayal of rural Australian life is both nostalgic and eye-opening, and the performances are excellent. It is a must-see for fans of Australian cinema and anyone who appreciates a good character-driven drama.