Something Like Summer (2017) is a romantic drama film directed by David Berry, based on the novel by Jay Bell. The film follows the emotional and transformative journey of two young men, Ben (played by Garrett Clayton) and Tim (played by Pierson Fode), as they navigate their relationship through the ups and downs of love, self-discovery, and societal pressures.
The story begins in high school when Ben, an openly gay teenager, falls in love with Tim, a popular and closeted boy. Their intense romance is filled with passion, but their relationship faces numerous challenges, especially as Tim struggles with his own fears of coming out. The film spans several years, showing the evolving dynamics between Ben and Tim as they grow older and experience different phases of life, from the excitement of first love to the complications of adult relationships.
Throughout the film, themes of identity, acceptance, and personal growth are explored. As Ben and Tim try to reconcile their love for each other with the pressures of their families and society, the film captures the difficulties and heartaches of being in a same-sex relationship, especially when one partner is not fully ready to embrace their true self. The story is told through flashbacks, with Ben looking back on his love for Tim and the impact it had on his life.
Something Like Summer is a poignant coming-of-age tale about love, heartbreak, and the complexities of being true to oneself. The film is filled with emotional moments and offers a heartfelt portrayal of the challenges that many LGBTQ+ individuals face in navigating love and identity in a world that may not always accept them. Itβs a bittersweet but hopeful story about love that transcends time and the lasting effects of first love.