Summertime (2015) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
The 2015 French film Summertime (original title: La Belle Saison), directed by Catherine Corsini, is a beautiful and poignant story of love, passion, and identity. Set against the backdrop of 1970s France, the film tells the story of two women, Delphine and Carole, whose lives intersect during a time of social change. Summertime is not only a romantic drama but also a reflection of the feminist movement, personal freedom, and the choices that define one’s life.
In this review, we’ll explore the film’s plot, its powerful themes, and where you can stream Summertime online through various platforms available in the United States.
Plot Summary: Love and Liberation in 1970s France
Summertime begins in rural France in 1971, where Delphine (Izïa Higelin) is living and working on her family’s farm. As the only child, she is expected to continue the family tradition and eventually take over the farm. However, Delphine longs for something more. After a brief relationship with a local girl ends in heartbreak, she decides to leave the countryside and move to Paris, where she seeks independence and freedom.
In Paris, Delphine meets Carole (Cécile de France), an outspoken and politically active feminist involved in the burgeoning women’s liberation movement. Carole, who is in a relationship with a man, is swept up in the political and social changes happening around her. As she and Delphine grow closer, their friendship blossoms into a passionate love affair.
The relationship between Delphine and Carole becomes the emotional heart of the film, but it is also tested by the societal pressures and expectations placed upon them. When Delphine is called back to the farm after a family emergency, she is forced to choose between her love for Carole and her responsibility to her family.
Themes: Love, Identity, and Feminism
One of the strengths of Summertime is how it intertwines personal and political struggles. The film doesn’t just tell a love story—it also examines the intersection of love and identity in the context of the feminist movement. In 1970s France, the women’s liberation movement was gaining momentum, challenging traditional gender roles and advocating for women’s rights, including the right to choose how to live and love.
Carole’s involvement in the feminist movement gives the film a political edge, as the women she rallies with are fighting for reproductive rights, sexual freedom, and equality. In contrast, Delphine’s life in the countryside represents the old world, where traditional values and expectations dominate. Their love story, therefore, becomes a metaphor for the clash between modernity and tradition.
The film also touches on themes of personal freedom and self-discovery. Delphine’s journey is not just about falling in love with Carole; it’s about finding her own identity, separate from the roles society has assigned to her. Summertime beautifully captures the joy and pain that come with discovering who you are, as well as the sacrifices that such discovery often demands.
Why Summertime Stands Out
Catherine Corsini’s direction is sensitive and nuanced, capturing the emotional intensity of Delphine and Carole’s relationship while also framing it within the larger social and political context of the time. The performances by Cécile de France and Izïa Higelin are powerful and authentic, bringing depth and complexity to their characters. Their chemistry is palpable, making the love between Carole and Delphine feel both real and urgent.
The cinematography is also worth noting. The contrast between the lush, sun-drenched countryside and the vibrant streets of Paris highlights the tension between Delphine’s two worlds. The film’s title, Summertime, evokes a sense of warmth, beauty, and fleeting moments—much like the central love story itself.
Where to Watch Summertime (2015) Online in the USA
If you’re looking to watch Summertime online, there are several streaming services in the United States where you can find the film. Whether you’re looking for subscription-based platforms or rental options, here are the best ways to stream Summertime:
1. Streaming Services (Subscription-Based)
- Hulu: Summertime is available to stream on Hulu, a popular subscription-based service offering a wide selection of movies and TV shows. Plans start at $7.99/month with ads, or $14.99/month for an ad-free experience.
- Criterion Channel: For cinephiles who appreciate classic and international cinema, Summertime is also available on the Criterion Channel. This service costs $10.99/month or $99.99/year, and it offers a curated collection of critically acclaimed films.
2. Rental and Purchase Services
- Amazon Prime Video: You can rent or buy Summertime on Amazon Prime Video. Rental prices typically range from $3.99 to $4.99, and the purchase price is around $9.99.
- Apple TV (iTunes): Summertime is also available for rent or purchase on Apple TV. The rental price starts at $3.99, while purchasing the film costs $9.99.
- Google Play Movies: Google Play Movies offers Summertime for rent at $3.99 or for purchase at $9.99.
- Vudu: Another option for renting or purchasing Summertime is Vudu, where you can rent the film for $3.99 or buy it for $9.99.
Why You Should Watch Summertime on Streaming Platforms
Streaming platforms not only offer convenience but also give you the flexibility to watch Summertime in high-definition from the comfort of your home. For those who appreciate international and LGBTQ+ cinema, platforms like Criterion Channel and Hulu provide an extensive library of similar films that can enrich your viewing experience.
Renting or purchasing Summertime online allows you to enjoy the film’s stunning cinematography and moving performances in the best possible quality. The film’s emotional depth and historical context make it a rewarding watch, especially for viewers interested in stories of personal growth and social change.
Conclusion: A Love Story That Defies Time
Summertime is more than just a romantic drama—it’s a film about the complexities of love, identity, and societal expectations. With its rich characters, powerful performances, and thoughtful exploration of feminism, the film remains relevant and compelling nearly a decade after its release.
Whether you’re a fan of LGBTQ+ cinema, French films, or stories of personal transformation, Summertime is a must-watch. The film’s timeless themes and beautiful execution ensure that it will continue to resonate with audiences for years to come.
Watch Summertime Today:
- Hulu
- Criterion Channel
- Amazon Prime Video
- Apple TV (iTunes)
- Google Play Movies
- Vudu
Prepare to be moved by this tender and evocative tale of love, self-discovery, and the courage to defy expectations.
