Review: In sun-dappled ‘Summer Solstice,’ old frictions re-emerge, as does a belated independence

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As a movie critic with a deep appreciation for poignant and introspective indie films, I was immediately drawn to “Summer Solstice.” Having spent my formative years navigating the complexities of friendship and identity, I found myself deeply connected to the story of Leo and Eleanor.

The genre of films featuring attractive, sad people in sun-kissed discomfort, with roots reaching from Eric Rohmer to Nicole Holofcener, now has an engaging new filmmaker in Noah Schamus. His debut work, “Summer Solstice,” skillfully presents a weekend in the woods that unleashes a series of neuroses in its characters.

In this version, the movie introduces Bobbi Salvör Menuez as Leo, a trans man and aspiring actor, making his way through the challenging city landscape of auditions and love. During this week, Leo has a significant callback for a television role. Despite this exciting opportunity, Leo agrees to accompany his college friend Eleanor, played by Marianne Rendón, on a short trip to an empty countryside house belonging to an acquaintance, when she proposes it.

For Leo, an essential part of the appeal of the trip lies in its role as a diversion from Alice, his classmate and occasional romantic interest, who has been evading his persistent requests for something deeper (the suspense of waiting for her reply to a casual text message, only to receive a dismissive “haha yes,” is both amusing and nerve-wracking). However, he soon realizes that Eleanor’s expressive personality comes with its own emotional challenges. Her outspokenness is tinged with a defensive and somewhat theatrical air, as well as a tendency to analyze Leo’s life situations. Over time, Leo begins to understand that his current self – confident and proactive – may not align well with Eleanor’s desired dynamic.

In simpler terms, this passage means that unspoken issues from what seemed like a lopsided friendship long ago are likely to be brought up. Leo encounters Oliver (Mila Myles), a trans actor whom Leo used to compete against, and Joe (Yaron Lotan), a bisexual friend of Oliver’s. Over hours spent around a pool, enjoying expensive cheese and wine, a bond forms between the three who identify as queer. This newfound camaraderie leaves Eleanor feeling excluded and longing to belong. She sadly expresses her wish to be part of their group.

Eleanor, portrayed by the talented Rendón, is a vibrant and dynamic molecule in the friendship storyline who could potentially dominate the narrative. Rendón’s performance, filled with expressive facial expressions, engaging line deliveries, and physicality, adds an intriguing layer to the plot. However, Schamus skillfully keeps Eleanor from disrupting the delicate balance we have come to enjoy in Menuez’s character. The red-haired and softly spoken Menuez radiates instant likability, making us eagerly anticipate every word during Leo’s audition rehearsal, hoping against hope that he secures the role.

After Eleanor persuades him to adopt a more aggressive approach to his role, an action filled with the dominance she once held over him, it seems disastrous and unraveling in a painful yet gradual manner. However, this setback doesn’t completely shatter our belief that this couple can navigate through their confusion surrounding gender dynamics, uncover hidden emotions, and strengthen their bond.

As a cinema enthusiast, I’m deeply moved by the subtle artistry of Jack Davis’ cinematography in “Summer Solstice.” His unassuming yet crisp visuals seamlessly blend the pastoral beauty of the landscape with the raw emotions conveyed through the actors’ expressive close-ups. The weather shifts reflect the characters’ internal turmoil, creating a vivid and immersive experience.

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2024-07-18 18:45