The Beautiful Summer, also known as La Bella Estate, is a 2023 Italian drama movie is based on the novel by Cesare Pavese. It is directed and co-written by Laura Luchetti. The movie tells the story of Ginia. The year is 1938 in Turin. Seventeen-year-old Ginia leaves the countryside with her brother to find a new life in the city. Even though Turin is under the shadow of a rising fascist government, and her brother wants to go back home, Ginia is hopeful about the future. She quickly becomes successful as a seamstress at an atelier. She gets new clients with her designs and impresses her usually grumpy employer.
Ginia is restless and wants adventure. She finds it in a beautiful, mysterious young woman named Amelia. Although they are the same age, Amelia’s sensuality and confidence inspire Ginia to start modeling for the bohemian artists in their circle. Ginia gets caught up in a whirlwind affair and is drawn into this new and unfamiliar world, all while being enchanted by Amelia. The two young women grow closer, and Ginia makes an emotional journey towards self-discovery during one beautiful, sun-dappled summer. The movie features tender performances by Yile Yara Vianello and Deva Cassel. Laura Luchetti’s coming-of-age drama shows the intertwined complexities of first love and first sexual experiences, highlighting the messiness and poignancy of adolescence.
Where was “The Beautiful Summer” Filmed?
The Beautiful Summer was shot in Piedmont, Italy. It is set in 1938 when young Ginia (played by Yile Yara Vianello) moves to the city from the countryside. Full of dreams and opportunities to explore, she wanders the city of Turin and its surroundings, including Parco della Mandria, Caffè Platti, Borgo Cornalese, Lake of Avigliana, and Caserma di Riberi.
Turin, Italy
Ginia is taken to discover the artistic bohemian corners of Turin by Amelia (played by Deva Cassel). Amelia is a girl unlike anyone Ginia has ever met. She is a little older, sensual, provocative, and ready to challenge Ginia’s beliefs. Conflicted between her sense of duty and the confusing discovery of desire, Ginia is overwhelmed with emotions she dares not identify. During her “beautiful summer,” she finally surrenders to her feelings and celebrates the courage to be herself.
Parco della Mandria: One of the beautiful locations in the movie is Parco della Mandria. It is a large park in Turin, perfect for showing the natural beauty of the area.
Caffè Platti: Caffè Platti is another filming location. It is a historic café in Turin, adding a touch of old-world charm to the movie.
Borgo Cornalese: Borgo Cornalese in Villastellone, Piemonte, is also featured in the movie. This walled village, with its countryside and lowland plains, provides a picturesque backdrop for the film.
Lake of Avigliana: The Lake of Avigliana in Piemonte is another stunning location. The territory includes the lake, mountains, and village, showcasing the natural beauty of the region.
Caserma di Riberi: Caserma di Riberi is also one of the locations used in the movie. It adds to the historical feel of the film.
Carignano and Villa Bona: Some scenes were also shot in the historic centre of Carignano. This area provides a perfect setting for the movie’s 1938 backdrop. Villa Bona is another beautiful location used in the movie. It adds to the elegance and charm of the film.
Sustainable Production: The film followed the Green Film protocol for more sustainable productions. This means the movie was made with efforts to be environmentally friendly.
The Beautiful Summer (La Bella Estate) beautifully captures the essence of Turin and its surroundings in 1938. The stunning locations, from the historic cafés and parks to the beautiful lakes and villages, add to the charm and beauty of the film. The movie not only tells a touching story of self-discovery and first love but also showcases the breathtaking beauty of Piedmont, Italy.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – The Beautiful Summer
Q: Where was “The Beautiful Summer” (La Bella Estate) filmed?
A: The Beautiful Summer was primarily filmed in the Piedmont region of Italy. Key filming locations include:
Turin: The city served as a central backdrop, featuring Parco della Mandria, Caffè Platti, and Caserma di Riberi.
Borgo Cornalese: Located in Villastellone, it provided a picturesque setting with its walled village and countryside.
Lake of Avigliana: The lake and surrounding area added natural beauty to the film.
Historic Centre of Carignano and Villa Bona: These locations contributed to the film’s historical and elegant atmosphere.
Q: When was “The Beautiful Summer” (La Bella Estate) filmed?
A: The filming of The Beautiful Summer took place in 2022.
Q: What is the release date of “The Beautiful Summer” (La Bella Estate)?
A: The Beautiful Summer premiered in Italy on November 10, 2023, and on Netflix on August 8, 2024.
Q: Was the film shot entirely on location?
A: While much of The Beautiful Summer was shot on location in Italy, some scenes were also filmed in controlled environments to achieve specific artistic effects. The use of historical and picturesque locations was crucial to maintaining the film’s authentic 1938 setting.
Q: Did the film follow any specific production protocols?
a: Yes, The Beautiful Summer adhered to the Green Film protocol, which focuses on sustainable and environmentally friendly production practices. This included measures to reduce the film’s environmental impact and promote sustainability in its making.
