Summertime (1955) — An Interlude in Venice

“Summertime” is a cinematic gem that I stumbled upon thanks to an Instagram post that boasted it as the ultimate depiction of Venice on the silver screen. Having recently visited Venice, I couldn’t resist the temptation to see how this classic movie captured the essence of this enchanting city.

One cannot deny the film’s visual allure, as it beautifully showcases Venice in all its glory. The camera takes you on a tour of the city’s major landmarks, giving you a sense of the place’s timeless beauty. It’s fascinating to note that while some things have changed, like the trains and the proliferation of street-side souvenir stalls, Venice still bears a striking resemblance to how it was portrayed in the movie released way back in 1955. The city’s enduring character is a true monument to its ageless nature. The film artfully juxtaposes the loneliness of the main character, played brilliantly by Katharine Hepburn, against the frenetic energy of Venice.

The moral aspects of the plot might not have aged well but nevertheless it was interesting to learn that the film was banned at the time of its release in India. The city’s ageless quality, along with Katharine Hepburn and Rossano Brazzi’s superb performances and chemistry, makes Summertime an entertaining watch.