As someone who has spent countless summers basking in the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean, “My Late Summer” resonated deeply with me. This film, set amidst the picturesque landscapes of Croatia, transports viewers to a world where life moves at a slower pace, yet is filled with warmth and character.
“The film titled ‘My Late Summer’ is a delightful dramedy, filmed in Croatia, directed by Bosnia’s Academy Award-winning director Danis Tanović (‘No Man’s Land’). This production, brought to us by Propeler Film of Zagreb, combines entertainment with a tender wistfulness. The regional collaboration boasts many of the director’s long-term associates among its cast and crew. The story revolves around Maja (Anja Matković), a spirited 30-something woman, who travels to a secluded island in search of truth about her past and a portion of an inheritance she believes is rightfully hers. As her journey stretches beyond expectations, the alluring island scenery, eccentric locals, and an unforeseen romance help shape her thoughts on her identity and aspirations.”
Stepping away from the intense, stark narratives that defined my earlier filmography, “My Late Summer” marks a shift in tone for me, with shared screenwriting duties between myself and lead actress Matković, alongside Nikola Kuprešanin of “Not So Friendly Neighborhood Affair.” This collaboration has led to a more multidimensional portrayal of female characters, deviating from the norm in my films. In fact, Maja’s character echoes the resilient heroines crafted by Howard Hawks, displaying both physical and verbal strength in equal measure.
Maja’s motives for visiting the scenic island of Prvić during the off-season remain unclear at first, but as her mother’s anxious phone messages go unanswered, the truth gradually comes to light. Later, a local lawyer (Marija Škaričić) informs Maja that her case will take some time, prompting her to accept a bartending job offered by the island’s progressive mayor Icho (portrayed compassionately by Goran Navojec). This job conveniently includes a place to stay. Despite having no prior experience in waitressing, Maja proves adept at serving the late summer locals and international tourists at the mayor’s waterfront tavern.
Despite Maja appearing capable of handling any situation life might present, she’s not intending to be swept off her feet by the attractive visiting author Saša (Uliks Fehmiu). His unfinished home masks the issues he carries with him. On the other hand, as the islanders make preparations for the Feast of Assumption celebration, Mayor Icho and his accomplice Nediljko (Mario Knezović) are planning to profit from their hidden marijuana farm.
Nestled among crystal-clear waters, the picturesque, vehicle-free island, adorned with cobblestone paths, old stone structures, and verdant pockets of garden, plays a significant role in the movie alongside the actors. This captivating setting leaves viewers comprehending why Icho expresses his love for it, aspiring to enhance its charm by installing a more efficient sewage system for its inhabitants. The script also acknowledges the island’s anti-fascist legacy through an elderly, quick-tempered partisan firing from her balcony and singing Communist tunes with the Mayor.
Following a minor part in Tanović’s “A Walk in the Woods,” the elegant and athletic Matković (previously a professional alpine skier, before venturing into acting) demonstrates her leading lady abilities and exhibits a heartfelt, convincing chemistry with Fehmiu. She manages to evoke Maja’s confusion and suffering as she recognizes that she is repeating the same romantic mistakes as her mother – and in the exact same location too.
As a dedicated cinephile, I must say that the captivating tech credits are nothing short of brilliant in every aspect. The atmospheric cinematography by Serbian Director of Photography Miloš Jaćimović, whose feature film career took off with the 2010 Sarajevo Film Festival winner “Tilva Rosh,” is truly commendable. Additionally, Livina Tanović’s melancholic score adds an emotional depth that leaves a lasting impression.
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2024-08-16 23:18