Summer in February (2013) is a British romantic drama directed by Christopher Menaul, based on the 1995 novel of the same name by Jonathan Smith, who also adapted the screenplay. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Cornish coast in the early 20th century, the film tells a captivating story of love, betrayal, and the complexity of relationships, revolving around a love triangle between an artist, his muse, and a young woman. The film explores the themes of passion, art, and the tragic consequences of choices made in the heat of youthful desire.

The plot follows the lives of three main characters: Sir Alfred Munnings (Dominic Cooper), a renowned artist, his muse and lover Florence Carter-Wood (Emily Browning), and her fiancé, Gilbert Evans (Dan Stevens), a kind-hearted and idealistic man. Set in the idyllic yet isolated Cornwall of the 1910s, the characters’ lives intertwine at the Newlyn School of Art, where Alfred and Florence’s passionate but troubled relationship begins to take shape. However, their love becomes complicated as Gilbert enters the picture, and the trio finds themselves trapped in a web of love, jealousy, and unspoken desires.

One of the film’s central themes is the tension between art and life. Sir Alfred Munnings, an accomplished painter, becomes infatuated with Florence, and their love affair provides the inspiration for some of his most well-known works. However, the passion that fuels his art also leads to personal turmoil. Florence, struggling with her emotions and desires, is caught between her love for Alfred and her loyalty to Gilbert. The film masterfully explores how the boundaries between life and art can become blurred, with each character’s personal struggles influencing the artwork they create and the relationships they forge.

The performances in Summer in February are particularly compelling. Dominic Cooper brings a complex, charismatic energy to the character of Alfred, capturing the artist’s charm, insecurity, and self-destructive tendencies. Emily Browning, as Florence, portrays a young woman torn between the demands of love and the constraints of society. Her vulnerability and longing are palpable, making her character’s internal struggle deeply affecting. Dan Stevens plays Gilbert with a quiet dignity, offering a contrast to the more impulsive characters around him. The chemistry between the three leads adds emotional depth to the film, making their intertwined fates all the more poignant.

Visually, Summer in February is stunning, with the Cornish landscapes serving as a perfect backdrop to the passionate and often turbulent relationships on screen. The cinematography captures the beauty of the seaside town, highlighting both its peaceful charm and its darker, more somber undertones. The film’s aesthetic choices reflect the internal conflicts of the characters, with the contrasting elements of nature and art framing their emotional journeys. The lush, rolling hills and the dramatic sea provide a constant reminder of the uncontrollable forces at play in the characters’ lives.

The tragic nature of the film becomes evident as the story unfolds. The choices made by the characters lead to heartbreaking consequences, as Florence’s inability to choose between Alfred and Gilbert ultimately leads to a devastating loss. The film paints a bittersweet portrait of love’s potential for both creation and destruction, exploring how the passions that drive individuals can also tear them apart. The emotional weight of the story is heightened by the historical context, as the characters’ lives are shaped not only by their personal decisions but also by the social and political realities of their time.

In conclusion, Summer in February (2013) is a beautifully crafted and emotionally charged film that explores love, art, and the consequences of desire. Christopher Menaul’s direction, along with the strong performances by Dominic Cooper, Emily Browning, and Dan Stevens, brings the story of passion and tragedy to life. The film is a poignant reminder of the complexities of relationships and the unpredictable nature of love, and it leaves a lasting impact on viewers long after the credits roll. Through its stunning visuals, compelling characters, and heartfelt story, Summer in February captures the timeless and often painful nature of love and loss.