Starring: Emily Browning, Dominic Cooper, Dan Stevens
Florence Carter-Wood (Browning) is an aspiring artist in the
early years of the twentieth century who, in the course of her studies, travels
to Cornwall to live with her brother (Max Deacon) amongst a group of bohemian
artists. One of these is the dramatic A.J Munnings (Cooper) who starts using
Florence as his muse amidst a growing romance.
Jonathan Smith adapts his 1995 novel (based on real events)
into a screenplay in this lavish and very British historical melodrama. Given
the artistic sensibilities of the story, it’s clear here that artfulness is key
in Summer In February. Everything seems somewhat picturesque and almost gothic
in its depiction, with a well-cast and willowy Emily Browning in the lead.
However, despite the striking imagery and an astounding by Benjamin Wallfisch,
the film somehow seems to lack passion. Whilst not entirely clinical and with
fine performances, the film never truly engages largely because emotional
twists aren’t the result of being slowly worn into the viewer but rather pivot
on sharp turns, losing some character depth. The film looks great, but beyond
that surface is a film that doesn’t put anything in to add depth.
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