Director Emily Hughes's new film, Summer at the Lake, begins with a stunning shot of the sun shining off a clear, blue lake. It’
s the first day of summer in the small town of Lakeside, and a gentle breeze blows through the tall grass around the lake. A few birds chirp somewhere in the distance. Suddenly, the calm, peaceful scene is broken by the loud blare of a bell. The sound signals the end of the school year at Lakeside Elementary. The scene then cuts to the school, where dozens of kids pour out of the building and into the summer air. This mixture of calm and chaos is one of Hughes's trademarks, which she employs throughout Summer at the Lake. 2The film's story centers on a group of a dozen children from the town. This close-knit group, which becomes known as the Lakeside Twelve, gathers daily by the lake. Every day, the children play and swim in the lake. Soon, it seems that days are blending together. In fact, it seems like nighttime never comes, and the sun always shines. 3As they spend more time at the lake, the Lakeside Twelve experience many adventures and a few close calls. The lake seems to have special and sometimes frightening powers. The children soon realize that endless summer and sunshine may not be all they want from life. But will they ever find their way back home? 4The cast of Summer at the Lake is made up of a few experienced actors, but many of the film's stars are fresh faces. Stacey, who becomes the leader of the Lakeside Twelve, is played by talented newcomer Justine Roth. Roth, whose character is a brave and kind leader, seems headed for fame. Costar and world-famous actress Jennifer Hawthorne said, "Justine has a presence on film that is tough to match. I'm sure she has a bright future ahead of her." 5Summer at the Lake is sure to be a box office smash, but unlike many of this summer's hit movies, this film is not flashy or action packed. It is Hughes's clear vision and the actors' believable performances that make Summer at the Lake a great film. The special effects and dialogue add to the movie's appeal. This family-friendly movie is sure to draw crowds, so get your tickets before they sell out. This is one film you don’t want to miss. 6At the close of the film, the camera again focuses on the quiet, beautiful lake. The sunlight dances across the water's blue surface. Then, birds begin to sing and the picture slowly fades to black. This final scene helps cement the lake and the movie in the minds of moviegoers. Review of Summer at the Lake by Sinta Fergus Don't believe the hype surrounding Emily Hughes' new film, Summer at the Lake. Some critics would have you believe that this film is entertaining and moving, but viewers should beware! Summer at the Lake is actually the summer's biggest bore. The primary problem with the film is not the setting (which is gorgeous and shot with beautiful and effective cinematography) nor is it the actors (who although some are inexperienced, still do a superb job). The problem with the film is its glacial pacing! Does anything actually happen in this film? Some may like a film without flash, panache and action, but not this reviewer. Save your money and stay at home! How do these two passages differ in their opinion of Summer at the Lake? A) Both Fergus and Benson heartily recommend the film without any reservations or warnings. B) Neither Fergus nor Benson find anything to praise in this film, criticizing both its craft and its story. C) Benson finds the film to be on the whole a satisfying feature, while Fergus has nothing but scorn for the film's quality. D) While Fergus recommends the film as a good family flick, Benson feels that the film has inappropriate content for children. Eliminate
