Three Summers
| Company type | Film |
|---|---|
| Industry | Film industry |
| Founded | August 12, 2017 |
| Founder | Ben Elton |
| Headquarters | Western Australia , Australia |
| Products | Romantic comedy film |
Three Summers is an Australian romantic comedy crafted and helmed by Ben Elton. Set and shot in Western Australia, the narrative centers on two musicians (portrayed by Rebecca Breeds and Robert Sheehan) whose relationship develops over three successive years during a music festival, serving as a reflection of Australian society in miniature. The film boasts a diverse ensemble including Magda Szubanski, Michael Caton, Deborah Mailman, Jacqueline McKenzie, and John Waters.
The movie made its debut at the Melbourne International Film Festival on 12 August 2017, followed by a nationwide theatrical release across Australia on 2 November 2017.
Plot
The story revolves around Roland, an affected theremin player, and Keevy, a grounded pub fiddler, whose paths cross at a music festival each summer for three years, set against a backdrop of varied Australian cultural environments.
A secondary storyline explores the transformation of a racist antagonist who encounters an Indigenous dance troupe and a refugee child.
Humorous motifs recur throughout, including performances by feminist singer Diamond covering iconic Australian tracks, two ostensibly typical middle-aged couples who engage in swinging, a trio from a girl band confronting internal shifts, and a no-nonsense security officer maintaining order.
Cast
- Robert Sheehan as Roland
- Rebecca Breeds as Keevey
- John Waters as Eamon
- Deborah Mailman as Pam
- Kelton Pell as Jack
- Jacqueline McKenzie as Professor Wellborn
- Magda Szubanski as Queenie
- Michael Caton as Henry
- Caroline Brazier as Olivia
Production
Penned and directed by Ben Elton, with editing managed by Peter Pritchard, Three Summers was shot in 2016 within the Peel area near Perth, Western Australia. The plot unfolds at the fictional "Westival" summer music festival, which draws inspiration from the actual Fairbridge Festival.
Release
The film premiered at the Melbourne International Film Festival on 12 August 2017 and subsequently opened across Australian cinemas on 2 November 2017.
Reception
On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a 54% approval rating from critics, averaging 4.6/10 based on 13 reviews.
David Stratton of The Australian commended Waters for his energetic depiction of a devoted father and praised Breeds’ portrayal of his spirited and gifted daughter.
In contrast, Sandra Hall from the Sydney Morning Herald characterized the film as "persistently well-intentioned," though she observed that its attempts at humor frequently appeared contrived.