I wanted a modern, authentic, German film, and I think I got it.
“First Lines:
Tobi: She said, I don't mind!
The Rundown
Behind the name: Original title — Summerstrum
Country: Germany, 2004
Genre: Drama, Coming-of-age
Distributor: Regent Releasing, X Verleih AG
Directed By: Marco Kreuzpaintner
Cast: Robert Stadlober (as Tobi), Kostja Ullmann (as Achim), Jürgen Tonkel (as Hansi), Miriam Morgenstern (as Sandra), Alicja Bachleda (as Anke/as Alicja Bachleda-Curus), Angelika Brennfleck (as Thea).
Compare to: Get Real (1998), Edge of Seventeen (1998), Come Undone (2000)
Hate it or Love it? Enjoy it
Synopsis in a Sentence: Two teenage guys who belong to the local rowing club have been best friends forever, and they do everything together: they’ve got the standard teenage lives, with girlfriends to match, but as they get closer, one begins to develop feelings a bit more than friendship…
On Writing: The Plot
The storyline is interesting. It’s written and produced well, carrying a sensitive subject in a realistic, yet wistful manner. With just enough of everything to keep you interested until the end. The delicacy of youth is highlighted in the plot, and the feelings of joy, happiness, and nostalgia is written into the storyline. The characters are lively and interesting to watch, the emotions that come with the story are handled skilfully and without (excessive) clichés. It’s a slightly controversial topic, but handled properly through this plot. Beware of nudity and sexual content though.
(4/5)
On Acting: The Cast
With captivating characters, the performance is not bad: Quite good actually. There are many interesting characters that will keep you hooked on the storyline. A good cast. Great teamwork altogether.
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| Robert Stadlober |
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| Kostja Ullman |
(3/5)
On Production:
The production is good. Done properly. The shots are beautiful and symbolic. In fact, better than you’d think, if you actually think about it. There are some great shots, nice symbolism; everything is implied with the way this film is produced. Production is done with talent and creativity.
(4/5)
On Resolution: The Conclusion
Quite good. Many things make this film good, and the resolution is one of them. Akin to the plot, the resolution remains real, not clichéd, but yet emotional and meaningful. A good one.
(4/5)
The Verdict: It’s a good watch. There’s more to this film that meets the eye, and it’s well done.
Overall Score = 15 /20
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