Summer City

Summer City, from 1977, is an Australian film that encapsulates the raw turning points in the life of four young men. Dynamic and provocative, it serves as a vivid portrayal of friendships strained by societal norms and personal aspirations, shot against the backdrop of Australia’s sun-kissed beaches.

Directed by Christopher Fraser, the film features young talents such as John Jarratt, Phillip Avalon, and Steve Bisley.

John Jarratt shines in his role as Sandy, a young man ready to plunge into the world but split between the comfort of his provincial life and the thrill of the unknown. A dreamer at heart, he takes his friendships seriously and wants to cherish every moment before adulthood sets everything on a different course. Sandy’s contradictions are at the heart of Summer City, his choices often affecting the dynamics between the group.

Contrasting the naïve warmth of Sandy is Scollop, portrayed with perfection by Steve Bisley. An embodiment of raw suburban masculinity, Scollop is reckless, brash, and disinterested in societal norms. However, with Scollop’s constant need for attention, the jovial façade occasionally slips off, revealing a deep-seated fear of ending up alone. Bisley lends depth and complexity to the role, instilling it with a sense of raw realism that is a treat to watch.

Phillip Avalon plays Boo, a character who is caught up in his own confusion and conflicting emotions. He oscillates between loyalty and self-preservation and struggles to reconcile his feelings with societal expectations. Avalon brilliantly showcases the dilemma of a young soul, making Boo's character one of the most complex in the film.

The last one of the quartet is Robbie, played by Mel Gibson in a minor role. He has a few transformative moments that are integral to the narrative.

Every friendship tested and every emotion explored in Summer City serves as a forerunner to deeper and darker currents that run underneath. While filled with elements of surf, beer, and romance, the film smartly takes a turn from this surface-level humor and exposes societal flaws and shortcomings.

Set in 1960’s Australia, Summer City stands out in the way it beautifully portrays adolescent naivety and adult disillusionment against the backdrop of an atmosphere brimming with cultural and political changes. The group's road journey is fascinating to watch – from their carefree jaunt across the coastline and beach parties to the tensions simmering just beneath the surface that threatens to upset their world forever.

Fraser strategically uses the scenic expanse of Australia, leveraging it not just as a setting but also as a narrative tool. The sun-drenched beaches and the endless sky act as metaphors for the characters' ambitions, dreams, and disillusionment. Meanwhile, the soundtrack, featuring songs from Ashton, Gardner, Dyke, and others, excellently amplifies the narrative tone and texture of the film.

While Summer City ensures to keep you entertained with its vibrant energy and youthful charm, it also delves into the darker aspects of coming-of-age, discussing the challenges of growing up in a society that is often notoriously rigid. It emphasizes that every individual has to come to terms with their own persona when the safety of adolescence is stripped away to uncover the harsh realities of an adult world.

In essence, Summer City is a memorable film that does not shy away from exploring profound themes while remaining refreshing, adventurous, and downright gritty at times. With stellar performances from the cast, especially that of young John Jarratt, Steve Bisley, and Phillip Avalon, the poignant script, and a good blend of humor and seriousness, this film serves as a commendable example of Australian cinema. It is gritty, often cloaked in a sunshine layer of superficial carefreeness. It is a film that effectively captures the essence of youthful exuberance and the subsequent and inevitable loss of innocence.