The 1955 film Summertime is renowned as David Lean’s personal favorite among his works. He often described it as a story about “loneliness.” This is intriguing, especially considering his distinguished filmography, which includes classics like Lawrence of Arabia, Doctor Zhivago, Bridge on the River Kwai, Oliver Twist, Brief Encounter, and A Passage to India. Despite being underappreciated, Summertime holds a special place in Lean’s heart, adding to its allure.
Recently, Criterion has restored Summertime, bringing back all its glory. In July 2022, the Criterion Collection released a new Blu-ray edition featuring a 4K digital restoration. This edition includes interviews with David Lean, cinematographer Jack Hildyard, and a film historian, providing deeper insights into the movie and Lean’s affection for it. Lean was so captivated by his experience that he even bought an apartment in Venice afterwards.
Starring Katharine Hepburn, who received an Oscar nomination for her role, Summertime boasts stunning cinematography and an emotional love story, much like Lean’s Brief Encounter. Watching the film feels like stepping back into 1950s Venice, Italy, with its vibrant Technicolor visuals.
Official Product Description of the New Criterion Blu-ray
In this beautifully bittersweet tale, director David Lean takes us away from the British soundstage to the sun-drenched splendor of Venice in summer. Katharine Hepburn plays a lonely, middle-aged American tourist who encounters her insecurities when she embarks on an affair with an Italian shopkeeper, played by Rossano Brazzi. The film captures the magic and melancholy of their fleeting romance, making it a poignant favorite among Lean’s works.
Summertime 1955 Cast
Katharine Hepburn stars as Jane Hudson, a middle-aged secretary from Ohio, exploring Venice with awe and wonder. As she falls for Renato De Rossi, a charming Italian shop owner portrayed by Rossano Brazzi, she faces her deep-rooted insecurities. Although Renato is separated from his wife, his marital status complicates their relationship.
The cast also includes Isa Miranda as Signora Fiorini, Darren McGavin as Eddie Yaeger, Mari Aldon as Phyl Yaeger, and Gaetano Autiero as Mauro, the young boy Jane befriends in Venice.
Summertime 1955 Film Locations
The film showcases Venice so beautifully that it becomes an enticing travel destination. Lean shot much of the principal photography on location, bringing the city’s real-life charm to the screen. Many scenes were filmed around iconic spots like Piazza di San Marco and Campo San Barnaba, including the notable scene where Hepburn falls into a canal.
Other locations used in the film include Rio dei Bareteri, Campo San Vio, Dorsoduro, Campiello Barbaro, Fondamenta San Felice, Isola di Burano, Campo de l’Abazia for the farewell kiss, and the Venice train station, Stazione Ferroviaría di Venezia Santa Lucia.
Summertime Review
Adapted from Arthur Laurents’ play The Time of the Cuckoo, with a screenplay by David Lean and H.E. Bates, Summertime feels almost like a fairy tale despite its bittersweet romance. The cinematography captures the picturesque Venice panorama grandly, while the simple story of Jane Hudson looking for love unfolds.
Hepburn’s performance is riveting, showcasing a range of emotions from loneliness and longing to repressed passion and newfound love. Brazzi, as her charismatic counterpart, enhances the film’s allure. The supporting cast delivers exceptional performances, complementing the strong script and Lean’s masterful direction.
Overall Thoughts
Summertime is visually stunning and deeply emotional, a testament to Lean’s directing prowess. The moral complexity of the romance adds depth, with Hepburn delivering one of her most vulnerable performances. Lean’s personal touch makes this film a beautiful ode to Venice that any classic romance fan should see. By the end, you might feel an urge to visit Venice, especially during the summer.
Where to Watch Summertime 1955
You can stream Summertime on HBO Max, The Criterion Channel, and Kanopy. It’s also available for rent or purchase on Digital and DVD/Blu-ray. For the best experience, the Blu-ray version is recommended.
Content Note: The film is rated PG-like due to its implied affair.
Have you seen Summertime? Share your thoughts in the comments!
