War-time drama infused with modern perspective portrayed in Summerland

In the heart of the 1970s, a unique romantic drama unfolds with the release of "Summerland," a film written and directed by Olivier Award-winning playwright Jessica Swale. The project, which delves into themes of imagination, hope, open-mindedness, and the power of innocence and truthfulness, marks Swale's feature directorial debut.

Swale's vision was supported by a bursary from BAFTA, providing her the opportunity to develop the entire project from scratch. The film revolves around Alice, played by Penelope Wilton, a reclusive woman whose world is turned upside down when she is tasked with caring for a frightened and innocent young boy seeking shelter from the London Blitz.

The film incorporates a variety of relationships, including those between children and adults, in the emotionally heightened period of a wartime setting. "Summerland" is not just a story about survival, but also a journey of self-discovery and transformation.

The film explores deep themes of faith, spirituality, loss, and belief through the concept of Summerland, a pagan idea of the afterlife. The narrative is further enriched by a great love story between Alice and Vera, which unfolds when they meet as younger women in the 1920s.

Gemma Arterton, who plays Alice, was drawn to the character's independence, unconventional appearance, and the mystery surrounding her. Vera and Alice's relationship blossoms at Oxford University, with Vera drawing Alice out of her shell.

The love story between Alice and Vera is portrayed through flashbacks as Alice has haunting memories of their past. The film is set over one extraordinary and memorable long hot English summer, providing a backdrop for this poignant and heartwarming story.

"Summerland" also features all types of relationships, including those between children and adults, in the emotionally heightened period of a wartime setting. The film has elements of loss, anger, sadness, family, childhood, and motherhood, making it relatable and accessible to a wide audience.

Behind the scenes, Adrian Sturges and Guy Heeley came on board as producers, drawn to the script's fresh take on a period that has been seen frequently in film and its progressive story within a familiar historical period. Swale's previous works, such as the TV short "Leading Lady Parts" in 2018, and her best-selling series of Drama Games books, published by Nick Hern, have established her as a talented and innovative storyteller.

Jessica Swale's career began as an Associate Director to Max Stafford-Clark at Out of Joint and continued with the founding of The Red Handed Theatre Company, which won the Peter Brook Award for Best Ensemble in 2012. Today, Swale stands as an Olivier award-winning theatre director, playwright, and Artistic Director of Red Handed Theatre Company.

With "Summerland," Jessica Swale has crafted a film that is both timeless and relevant, offering audiences a unique and moving cinematic experience.