‘Glorious Summer’ Review: Ignorance Is Bliss in Ethereal Dystopian Drama

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In a cinematic world that blends the styles of Yorgos Lanthimos and Lucile Hadžihalilović, we find “Glorious Summer,” a film by Helena Ganjalyan and Bartosz Szpak. This sun-drenched tale is steeped in apprehension as it explores the customs of a peculiar, secluded society that gradually comes under scrutiny. The filmmakers deliberately refrain from pinpointing their location, instead focusing on three young women living under watchful eyes who slowly discover their own sense of judgment within the crumbling walls of a mansion that has been their only home. Despite not revealing the exact place where this story unfolds, the duo have crafted an intriguing debut feature that promises to establish them as notable filmmakers in other aspects.

Targeted at diehard movie enthusiasts, “Glorious Summer” lacks a traditional narrative and specific character names for its leading ladies. However, directors Ganjalyan and Szpak maintain an alluring enigma throughout the film, as they immerse us in a picturesque mansion, inhabited only by these three young women. Their actions are governed by a voice reminiscent of Siri, designed to both instruct and control them.

A speaker softly announces in a feminine voice, “This is your sanctuary, look after it. It shields you,” using a combination of Swedish, Italian, English, and Arabic phrases for additional guidance. To an observer, these subtle instructions fused with different cultures might appear as an effort to broaden the experiences of women. However, as the blend becomes more ambiguous, it instead serves to obscure any notion of what lies beyond, creating a sense of isolation or self-containment.

Women within these fortified walls find comfort that makes them oblivious to the unknown beyond the gates, as the captivating beauty of “Glorious Summer” holds their attention so effortlessly. The vibrant radiance and harmonious arrangements of this idyllic scene make it hard for them to feel the slightest pang of curiosity about the world outside. Their basic needs are met abundantly, leaving them free to pass the time with innocent games like jumping rope or playfully squirting water at each other.

However, there is an unsettling undercurrent to their daily lives. They occasionally practice lying motionless on the ground, anticipating revival by one of their companions. This strange ritual is part of a yearly tradition known as “Glorious Summer,” where one day is set apart for the trio to truly appreciate the rest of the year.

Ganjalyan and Szpak might delve too deeply into intricate details, but by subtly avoiding disclosing the event’s origins or its specific progression, the movie presents itself as a trial of the young women’s determination. The extent of their involvement in the event becomes the main focus of the film, rather than the outcome, and while they remain unidentified, they are distinct due to their varying perspectives on what lies ahead.

The film’s co-director Ganjalyan seems to take charge, acting as the de facto leader of the group, a role she carries out with a hint of mistrust towards announcements made over the loudspeaker. This skepticism is echoed by Magdalena Fejdasz-Hanczewska, who follows orders but does so reluctantly and without conviction, suggesting her disbelief in the system. In contrast, the character portrayed by Daniela Komędera is shown as gullible, eagerly participating in activities and seeming relieved to be free from having to think for herself.

In “Glorious Summer,” Ganjalyan and Szpak skillfully create an otherworldly atmosphere, ensuring the narrative never veers into didacticism as a transformation unfolds, depicting a society where personalized information feeds have become so ingrained that questioning or challenging curated reality is easier said than done. However, the movie falters slightly when a new character (Weronika Human) enters the community, raising more questions than Ganjalyan and Szpak seem willing or able to fully address. Despite this stumble, they effectively underscore the film’s message by weaving emotion over logic, creating an enchanting spell. “Glorious Summer” showcases the potency of illusions exceptionally well, with its creators proving not only adept at conjuring them, but also at piercing through them with striking clarity.

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2025-03-21 02:16