Summerland

I really loved this and although the protagonist was a lil' rough in the beginning when the story begins to unfold some sense of plot we really get to know the main character a lot more and it all starts to make sense its very well put together!

Really fantastic lead actors in the roles of Alice and Frank. The development between them was well done. This is a really heartwarming story with a pretty location and good period setting. The schoolmaster character provided great comedy too. Overall, this is not a dark, gritty WWII story. It always keeps it on the light side even when death factors in, but sometimes it's nice to see a sweet movie like that. I felt the emotional payoff between Alice and Vera could have been executed better, and the "Older" characters timeline took away from the emotions in the main timeline. I really didn't need that later timeline at all. It was such a tiny piece of the story, and all emotional disclosures should have been kept in the main timeline because those are the characters we grew to love and wanted to see THEM experience any and all emotional payoffs. Still, a really well-made WWII film for all ages.

I love Gemma Arterton, but her "grrr, I'm cantankerous and crabby" routine wouldn't let me get through the first 20 minutes. Hack of a cliche, down to the forced "I'm a tough as nails smoker." Do yourselff a favor, pass on this, and watch Tamara Drewe again.

A must watch!! This film is movingly beautiful. Sumptuous to watch because of the amazing cast, their acting, the stunning scenery. The storyline is poignant and touches you deeply. I would say the low ratings seen here are likely due to homophobia, sadly. Can't think of any other reason. Summerland rates a 10/10 for sure.

In this crappy year of 2020, one of the delights of Summerland is how rewatchable it is. I'm spending New Year's Eve self isolating and watching this film again for the 4th time. Gemma Arterton is delightfully crabby (the opening scene in a corner shop sets the tone nicely) as solitary writer Alice who is lumbered with an evacuee in WW2 Kent (and stunning views of the white cliffs of Dover.) Unsurprisingly, her frosty demeanour melts but there is a nice and unexpected look back to a heart break in her past that bucks the cosy expectations of many period dramas. It's relatively tame and safe stuff, sensitively handled but in these turbulent times, this film is comforting and charming. And as I said, one you can watch and rewatch! Not every film has to be grim and gritty, there's a place for well made dramas with a heart.

Honestly one of the most heartwarming and nice stories I have seen in a longtime. Will make you laugh and cry, and leave you feeling happy and satisfied, which is really rare for movie these days! Please watch if you get the chance! It deserves every one of my 10/10 stars.

There is no crazy action or high drama here, but what there is, is gentle, moving, and brilliant. Gemma Arterton carries this film from start to finish in what is in my opinion her best ever performance. She is crazy, unhinged, weird, but then melts as the story unfolds. It throws in a surprise I did not see coming and ends beautifully. The supporting cast is excellent but this is one woman's film.

A really lovely tale that despite a rather serious undertone conveys a heartfelt message and levity. The acting was good from the whole cast and the cinematography warm and vivid. An enjoyable watch.