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How to enjoy A Summer Place

I talked about it a few weeks ago, and I now I'm reporting on my thoughts on A Summer Place. Let me put it this way, if you like camp, you're in for a treat. Of course, I'm not talking about going out in the woods, pitching a tent, and making a fire. No, this is the kind of movie that should be enjoyed with a drinking game.

I should say before I go any further that some of the acting is really strong, especially Richard Egan. That said, pretty much every character in the film is a one-note character. And just like imagining an entire concert where the main instruments play one, maybe two notes, imagine that for a little over two hours. Um, yeah . . .

Basically, if you're up for it, take a drink whenever the following happens:
--The still-popular "Theme from 'A Summer Place'" kicks in.
--A major music sting occurs when a parent faces the camera.
--A long-winded soapbox about love is spoken.
--A close-up of a person with a single tear occurs.
--Bart takes a drink.

With all kidding aside, I was glad I watched the film. Even with the worst movies I've seen in my life, I'm glad I've seen them. Why? Because I know what it's like to see a great movie that fulfills and entertains like no other. But also in the case of A Summer Place, I have a better understanding of why the theme music is still popular. There's richness in the melody and the playing. And, there are a lot of sweet and warm notes -- something severely lacking from the movie's script and acting.

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