𝐒𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐋𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐒𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐫 (𝟐𝟎𝟏𝟕) | 𝐁𝐞𝐧, 𝐓𝐢𝐦, 𝐉𝐚𝐜𝐞

𝑺𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑳𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝑺𝒖𝒎𝒎𝒆𝒓 (2017) | 𝑩𝒆𝒏, 𝑻𝒊𝒎, 𝑱𝒂𝒄𝒆

Something Like Summer is a heartfelt and captivating romantic drama that explores the complexities of love, identity, and self-acceptance. Based on the novel by J.P. Barnaby, this film brings to life the struggles and triumphs of an LGBTQ+ love story that transcends typical romance tropes. At its core, it is a poignant and sincere exploration of young love, overcoming obstacles, and the personal growth that comes with navigating a challenging world.

Plot Summary: The film follows the relationship between Ben (played by the talented actor), a sensitive and introverted high school student, and Tim, the charming and outgoing popular guy who seems to have it all. Ben and Tim’s love story begins when they meet as teenagers, and despite their differences—Ben’s reserved nature and Tim’s seemingly perfect life—they quickly form a deep and emotional connection. However, their relationship is far from easy, as Tim struggles with his own internalized fears and the pressure of conforming to societal expectations.

As their love blossoms in high school, they are forced to confront challenges, not only from the external world—bullying, societal rejection, and the pressures of being true to themselves—but also from within their own hearts. The most significant obstacle they face is Tim’s eventual decision to hide their relationship, torn between his love for Ben and the fear of how his family and friends might react.

The film’s narrative unfolds over several years, chronicling the ebb and flow of their relationship. As time passes, Ben is left heartbroken and struggling with the remnants of their lost love. Eventually, both men find themselves in different places in life, only to reconnect years later in a powerful and emotional reunion. In the end, the film explores themes of forgiveness, personal growth, and the complexities of love that lasts across time, proving that true love often requires patience, understanding, and an unwavering belief in the connection between two people.

Artistic Analysis: Something Like Summer stands out for its beautiful cinematography, which helps set the emotional tone for the film. The use of vibrant colors in the flashbacks of the characters’ youth contrasts with more muted tones as the story progresses, symbolizing the loss of innocence and the emotional weight of the years that pass. The lighting is soft and warm during intimate moments between Ben and Tim, creating a sense of closeness and vulnerability that adds depth to their connection.

The pacing of the film is deliberate, with the slow unfolding of the relationship between Ben and Tim allowing for both the joy and the heartbreak of young love to be felt deeply by the audience. While the film touches on moments of pain and longing, it never loses sight of the hope and resilience that drive both characters.

Performances: The film’s performances are truly remarkable, with the lead actors giving heartfelt portrayals of characters caught in a whirlwind of emotions. The actor playing Ben brings a sense of depth and nuance to his character, portraying a young man who is at once vulnerable, hopeful, and deeply introspective. His emotional journey is both touching and relatable, capturing the internal struggle of trying to reconcile love with self-acceptance.

Tim’s character, portrayed by a charismatic actor, is equally compelling. He embodies the complexity of a person who is outwardly confident but is grappling with a great deal of inner turmoil. The chemistry between the two leads is undeniable, making their emotional highs and lows resonate deeply with the audience. Their performances create a genuine, raw connection that transcends the screen.

Supporting roles, particularly from the character of Jace, provide added layers of complexity to the narrative. Jace’s role as a friend and confidant to both Ben and Tim adds depth to the themes of loyalty, friendship, and the complicated nature of relationships.

Emotion: The emotional heart of Something Like Summer lies in its exploration of love’s capacity to evolve, endure, and heal. The film doesn’t shy away from the pain of unrequited love, rejection, and heartbreak, but it also offers hope—hope that love, even when it seems lost, can resurface when least expected. The film’s portrayal of Ben and Tim’s relationship is tender and emotional, capturing the bittersweetness of love that is both fleeting and eternal.

The themes of self-acceptance and personal growth are woven into the narrative beautifully. As both characters mature, they learn to accept themselves and each other, realizing that love isn’t always perfect, but it can still be meaningful and transformative. The film’s exploration of time, and the way it shapes relationships, adds a poignant layer to the narrative.

Final Thoughts: Something Like Summer is a tender and emotionally charged film that delivers a powerful message about love, loss, and finding oneself. It transcends the typical coming-of-age or LGBTQ+ romance tropes, offering a complex, layered story that resonates long after the credits roll. With its stunning performances, beautifully shot scenes, and heartfelt narrative, the film provides an honest and raw depiction of love in all its forms. For anyone who has ever loved deeply, lost, and found a way to move forward, Something Like Summer is a film that will leave an indelible mark on your heart.