A late summer journey: Unraveling the past on a Croatian island
My Late Summer is a delightful dramedy set against the picturesque backdrop of Croatia, directed by Bosnia’s Oscar-winning filmmaker Danis Tanović, known for his acclaimed work in No Man’s Land. Produced by Zagreb’s Propeler Film, this regional co-production is both entertaining and tinged with a poignant sense of nostalgia. The film features some of Tanović’s longtime collaborators, both in front of and behind the camera.
A quest for answers and inheritance
The story revolves around the spirited Maja, portrayed by Anja Matković, a thirty-something woman on a mission to uncover truths about her past and claim an inheritance she believes is rightfully hers. Her journey takes her to a remote island, where the charming locale, quirky inhabitants, and an unexpected romance help her reassess her identity and ambitions.
A nuanced female protagonist
Operating in a lighter tone compared to his earlier, more intense works, Tanović shares screenwriting duties with lead actress Matković and Nikola Kuprešanin, his co-writer from Not So Friendly Neighborhood Affair. This collaboration results in a more nuanced and well-rounded female character than typically seen in Tanović’s films. Maja’s character is reminiscent of a strong Howard Hawks heroine, holding her own both physically and verbally.
The island of Prvić: A character in itself
Maja’s reasons for visiting the picturesque isle of Prvić during the off-season are not immediately clear. However, unreturned phone messages from her increasingly upset mother gradually fill in the gaps. A local lawyer, played by Marija Škaričić, informs Maja that her case will take some time. In the meantime, Maja takes up a barmaid job offered by the island’s left-leaning mayor, Icho, portrayed sympathetically by Goran Navojec. This job conveniently comes with a place to stay, and despite her lack of waitressing experience, Maja handles the late summer locals and foreign tourists with ease.
An unexpected romance
While Maja seems prepared for anything life throws at her, she doesn’t anticipate falling for visiting novelist Saša, played by the charming Uliks Fehmiu. Saša’s under-construction home hides the emotional baggage he carries. As the islanders prepare for the Feast of Assumption holiday, Mayor Icho and his contractor friend Nediljko, played by Mario Knezović, look to profit from their illicit marijuana crop.
The enchanting island setting
The car-free island, with its clear sparkling waters, cobblestone streets, ancient stone buildings, and lush gardens, becomes as much a character in the film as the performers. The enchanting locale is so captivating that viewers can understand why Icho declares his love for it, with his dearest wish being to improve the island’s sewage system. The screenplay even pays homage to the island’s anti-fascist heritage, featuring an elderly, trigger-happy partisan who sings Communist songs with the Mayor from her balcony.
A standout performance
After a small role in Tanović’s Neighborhood Affair, the graceful and athletic Matković, who was a professional alpine skier before taking up acting, shines in her leading role. She shares a tender and believable chemistry with Fehmiu, making the audience feel Maja’s bewilderment and pain as she realizes she is repeating her mother’s romantic mistakes in the same place.
Technical excellence
The film’s evocative technical credits are outstanding in every respect. Serbian DoP Miloš Jaćimović, whose feature career began with the 2010 Sarajevo fest winner Tilva Rosh, provides atmospheric cinematography. Composer Livina Tanović’s melancholy score further enhances the film’s emotional depth.
For those interested in exploring more about the film, you can watch the trailer for My Late Summer.
My Late Summer is a beautifully crafted film that combines humor, romance, and a touch of melancholy, set against the stunning backdrop of a Croatian island. It’s a journey of self-discovery and reflection, making it a must-watch for cinema enthusiasts.