Summerland

Most of the story here is during the 1940s England, WW2 was raging and British cities were being bombed. To help preserve the children many were sent to live with families in rural areas less prone to the warfare. But the story also includes flashbacks to the 1920s and finally ends in the 1970s.

The single lady, an author, is surprised when she is brought a young boy, perhaps 12 or so, to live with her. She was irate and unwelcoming, she was sure there was a mistake. But slowly the boy wins her heart and only near the end of the movie does she fully realize why she was chosen, as the only one the mother back in London trusted would take care of him.

It is a good movie, well-filmed and well-acted. My wife and I watched it at home on DVD from our public library. The title is a reference to a fictitious place that is sort of a pagan version of where you go when you die.

MAR 2925 update: My wife and I just watched it again, most of it was fresh after 4+ years. A good relationship story.

After giving up on finding decent films in 2020, I came across the trailer for Summerland on Youtube and it pricked my attention as I find both Gemma Arterton and Gugu Mbatha-Raw both very engaging actors.

I'm so glad that i ended up buying Summerland as it's a film filled with emotion, tenderness, strength and vulnerability. As yes the film has a plot of Lesbianism, but it's so well written that it is never the main focus of the film, (as with a lot very woke films) because the story is about love, tenderness and eternal hope.

Gemma Arterton really switches it up her role as Alice and one why you can see why she is a leading lady, her ability to convey so much emotions in her eyes and expressions are that of someone that really knows their craft.

Gugu Mbatha-Raw, even though isn't in the film much, (like with most of her roles) but when in a scene she really does shine and radiates.

If you want to get away from all the craziness of 2020 and watch a film that engages you, fills you with emotions and gets right back to humanity, I can't recommend Summerland highly enough.

This story is beautiful in every way. From the scenery, to the cinematography, to the selfless act of taking in children from London, and to the forbidden love that transcends time. I love every bit of this film!

This movie was a heart-warming tale of how love can find its way back. The main characters were so very well portrayed. I so needed this break from the cruelties of reality. The young man who played Frank was exceptional. It was a very clean and wholesome film, and anyone who finds issue with the content has to be a close-minded individual.

An endearing and easy going tale of a cantankerous lass who gradually comes to terms with the cards she's been dealt when a wartime evacuee lands at her shore. Perfect Sunday afternoon family fare.