Indian Summer (1972)

Indian Summer Poster
Original Title: La prima notte di quiete

In Italy, the gambler and professor of poetry Daniele Dominici arrives in the seaside town of Rimini and is hired to teach for four months in the local high school replacing another teacher. His relationship with his partner Monica is in crisis and he spends most of the time with his new acquaintances and gamblers Giorgio, Marcello and Gerardo. In classroom, he meets the gorgeous nineteen years old student Vanina Abati, who is Gerardo's girlfriend.

Film Overview
"Indian Summer" is a movie directed by Valerio Zurlini and produced by Yves Gasser and Raymond Danon in 1972. It stars Alain Delon, Giancarlo Giannini, and Sonia Petrova in essential roles. The movie is embeded in the backdrop of the First World War and depicts a haunting tale of romance, war, anguish, and psychological decay.

Plot Description
The story revolves around the life of the dissipated aristocrat, Lieutenant Stefano (played by Alain Delon), who has actually lost touch with the world due to his suspicion of the changing times and the continuous war. In the middle of this mayhem, he discovers convenience within the walls of his villa, leading a melancholic and reclusive life.

His inactive existence is shaken when he meets the ravishing charm, named Carla (played by Sonia Petrova). Carla, the young wife of an aging teacher, is virtually abandoned by her partner, leading a life of loneliness similar to Stefano's. Bound by their shared loneliness, the two quickly establish a passionate relationship that brings out their inmost desires and emotions.

Secret Themes
"Indian Summer" is not just a tale of love; it is an exploration of the human state of solitude and anguish in the face of an inescapable doom. The movie effectively contrasts between the appeal of love and the grandeur of the rental property with the grim reality of a continuous devastating war. The relationship in between Stefano and Carla is a sign of a quick reprieve, an Indian Summer, prior to the onset of the harsh winter, symbolic of the war.

Stefano's character is layered and complex-- he is a cynic disappointed by the war, trapped in his previous magnificence and pride. Carla, on the other hand, brings a sense of innocence and purity to the narrative. Although young and gorgeous, she is deeply lonesome and craves love and love. Their enthusiastic relationship is a desperate plea for a semblance of joy in their otherwise bleak presence.

Performances and Filmmaking Style
Valerio Zurlini's direction is profound, catching the subtleties of each character with depth and significance. The casting is exceptional-- Alain Delon delivers an extensive performance as the melancholic and brooding Stefano. His raw emotion and depth of character are extremely persuading. Sonia Petrova likewise impresses as the innocent yet enthusiastic Carla, with her expressions appropriately illustrating her isolation and longing.

The cinematography by Tino Santoni is impactful, with each frame diligently recording the dismal ambiance of the war and the lavish beauty of the vacation home. The movie's dismal setting juxtaposed with the passionately warm relationship of Carla and Stefano runs parallel throughout the movie, resulting in a melancholic ending.

Conclusion
"Indian Summer" is a heart-wrenching tale of love, loneliness, and anguish, set versus the backdrop of an approaching doom. With powerful performances, appealing story, and profound direction, the film leaves a lasting impression on the audience. It is an ideal reflection of a concealed human condition of looking for warmth and convenience during the darkest times, making it a timeless in the realm of cinema.

Top Cast

  • Alain Delon (small)
    Alain Delon
    Daniele Dominici
  • Sonia Petrovna (small)
    Sonia Petrovna
    Vanina Abati
  • Giancarlo Giannini (small)
    Giancarlo Giannini
    Giorgio Mosca aka 'Spider'
  • Renato Salvatori (small)
    Renato Salvatori
    Marcello
  • Alida Valli (small)
    Alida Valli
    Marcella Abati - Vanina's mother
  • Adalberto Maria Merli (small)
    Adalberto Maria Merli
    Gerardo Favani
  • Salvo Randone (small)
    Salvo Randone
    professeur Porra
  • Lea Massari (small)
    Lea Massari
    Monica
  • Fabrizio Moroni (small)
    Fabrizio Moroni
    Fabrizio Romani
  • Sandro Moretti (small)
    Sandro Moretti
    Leo Montanari
  • Patrizia Adiutori (small)
    Patrizia Adiutori
    Valeria