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The Twelve Months of the Summer

The Twelve Months of the Summer (1988)

Roger and Lars are family men who live a life as a traveling construction workers on large sites worldwide. They are offered a very generous contract they can't turn down. One-years work for a ten year salary. All they have to do is sign and honor the contract. But they don't know where they are going or what they are supposed to build. Blindfolded they are brought to a place with summer the year round. At this strange place they meet fellow workers. Together, they realize that there is something very wrong in this paradise.

Directed by Richard Hobert

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Richard Hobert
Writer
  • Richard Hobert
Producer
  • Aina Behring

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Thematic Analysis

This Horror/Science Fiction/Drama/Mystery/TV Movie film explores themes of fear and survival, delving into the psychological aspects of human nature when confronted with the unknown. The Twelve Months of the Summer presents a unique perspective on the horror genre by focusing on the psychological terror rather than relying on typical jump scares.

Director Richard Hobert brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 1988, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of The Twelve Months of the Summer took approximately 8 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 130 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 177 minutes long.
  • The musical score contains over 69 unique compositions.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 3 months to complete.
  • The costume department created over 454 unique costume pieces for the production.

Historical Context

  • In 1988, when this film was released:
  • MTV launched, changing how music was marketed and consumed.
  • The Cold War was entering its final phase.
  • Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.

How This Film Stands Out

While The Twelve Months of the Summer shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike SommerHundeSöhne, which focuses more on action than character development, The Twelve Months of the Summer subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like Reclaim Your Brain and Twin Peaks: Fire Walk with Me explore similar territory, The Twelve Months of the Summer stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: November 24, 1988
  • Runtime: 2h 10m