Summer Solstice

Well Meaning, But.........
SUMMER SOLSTICE is a film that grabbed my attention at the beginning. It's filmed in the Damariscotta/Pemaquid Point region of mid-coast Maine, and the setting alone is sumptuous. It has background music by Tim Janis, a composer and Maine resident who is inspired by his state's natural beauty when he writes music, so it fits well. It is also apparent from the beginning that we're not dealing with a major studio release with a big budget, but the film makers seem to do their best with the equipment available which makes it a film with heart and sincerity. Still, while the film has some wonderful aspects, as a whole, it is a bit uneven.

The film tells the story of Joshua Ballard (George Fivas who is also the director), a college student who should have graduated two years earlier. He's searching for his purpose in life and is aided by Seth Arden (Joe Estevez) and his young niece Andrea (Brook Jennell Slack) along with two close friends Micki and Keat played by Lindsey...

Worth Seeing
It took me a while to settle into this film but once I did I felt so absorbed and transported that I forgot where I was. It's definitely an ultra low budget film and any viewer should know that going in. It's not slick or technically perfect. But what it lacks in budget it more than makes up for in heart. Personally, I like to seek out the early work of filmmakers and actors so that I can see how they started and how far they've come.

What this movie really has going for it is a very thoughtful script, lovely and truthful performances across the board, breathtaking locations along the Maine coast and a gorgeous score by Tim Janis that will be familiar to fans of his music.

I recommend this film to those who can appreciate a quiet, gentle and contemplative tone. I came away feeling that my mind and spirit had been nurtured by this story.

Thoughtful, celebratory, and picturesque
If you have ever felt misunderstood or frustrated about how to express yourself... If you have ever been in the mood to contemplate life, it's meaning, and your place in it... If you have ever had trouble working out your destiny... If you have ever felt gifted but also burdened by it... If you have ever had trouble reconciling your feelings...

Or, if you have cause to celebrate the Summer Solstice and transitional changes in your life...

Or, if you enjoy picturesque beauty, beautiful music, and thoughtful conversation...

Or, if you appreciate extensive works of art achieved with very little and through prohibitive obstacles...

Or, if you seek out works by Academy Award nominated or Golden Globe winning performers...

Or, if you simply happen to be a fan of Karen Black or Lindsay Pulsipher or Tim Janis or Joe Estevez...

Then, this film might just be for you.

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