Cast
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Debbie Gibson
as Debbie Taylor
Robert Gant
as Noah
Pascale Hutton
as Denise
Lane Edwards
as Tim
Mitchell Kummen
as Johnny
Eric Gibson
as Oliver
Marcus Rosner
as Liam
Keenan Tracey
as Dylan
Lauren McNamara
as Natalie
Daniel Bacon
as Mattress Store Manager
Shon Burnett
as Ryan
Simon Chin
as Store Owner
Zeeshan Goawala
as Prom student #2
Crew
Director
- Mike Rohl
Writer
- Tippi Dobrofsky
- Neal H. Dobrofsky
Producer
- Kim Arnott
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Summer of Dreams examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Mike Rohl 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 2016, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Summer of Dreams took approximately 12 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 84 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 130 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 10 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 2016, when this film is released:
- Political polarization was intensifying in many countries.
- Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Summer of Dreams shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Entertainer, which focuses more on action than character development, Summer of Dreams subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like The Last Movie Star and I Used to Be Famous explore similar territory, Summer of Dreams stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
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: August 27, 2016
- Runtime: 1h 24m
Where to Watch
