silviu_m Reviews

Un été inoubliable (1994)

I can't think of a better one line summary than the title itself...

[2 February 2001]

Most of the action unfolds in a remote, dry, semi-deserted place, a romanian military outpost at the border with Bulgaria. Out of this world, comes Kristin Scott Thomas, a summer breeze, lively, hopeful, and somewhat unexpectedly devoted to her husband. She does not hesitate to follow him to his post, in the middle of nowhere. She could live happily anywhere. Her good faith and kindness are unusual in that land. Indeed an unforgettable summer for those who met her, and for the viewers too. But sad, often outrageous things happen in that region. Orders must be carried out, innocent prisoners must shot. Things that no one can stop, or change. Not even a bright and genuinely hopeful character as that of Kristin Scott Thomas. She ends up drinking, we are told...And all is the same, and will probably stay the same. A lost hope...A defeat. A pessimistic movie for those who come from there. Though well made, with very good, solid performances, it is unlikely that this movie will be of much interest to non-romanian audiences. Kristin Scott Thomas: a super intelligent actress, under-rated by far.