by Infinite Summer Review: Mindfulness, an Eastern practice focused on living in and paying attention to the present moment, continues to be highly popular. Although there’s substantial evidence supporting its benefits for health and well-being, its potential for brain alteration makes it a prime candidate for horror and horror-comedy parodies. In Miguel Llansó’s Infinite Summer, a group of young women’s lives are transformed in unexpected ways when they encounter Dr. Mindfulness (Ciaron Davies). His enigmatic mindfulness technology has a profound and bizarre impact that goes far beyond their expectations. The film blends a coming-of-age story with a critique of our near-future tech-driven world and a satirical take on our culture’s quest for quick enlightenment.
This isn’t the first time wellness practices have been explored through horror comedy. Films like Kevin Smith’s Yoga Hosers and Alex Henes and Matthew Merenda’s Mind Body Spirit have already delved into the realm of yoga, while In a Violent Nature provided a gory twist on wellness cleanses. Ben Wheatley’s In the Earth and Jaco Bouwer’s Gaia offer a darker view of close-to-nature communities, and Animal Rights activists often appear in movies involving plague-spreading animals, like Alex Garland’s 28 Days Later. In Infinite Summer, a new advancement in mindfulness—tinged with surreal and conspiratorial elements—guides us through a young woman’s journey of self-discovery.
Infinite Summer (2024)
Infinite Summer is a coming-of-age film set in a quaint coastal town, focusing on a group of teenagers who experience a summer filled with adventure, romance, and personal growth. As they face their own challenges and create lasting memories, they learn important lessons about friendship and maturation.
Release Date
July 27, 2024
Director
Miguel Llansó
Cast
Hannah Gross, Ciaron Davies, Ivo Uukkivi, Katariina Unt, Teele Kaljuvee-O’Brock, Johanna-Aurelia Rosin, Sissi Nylia Benita, Steve Vanoni
Runtime
94 Minutes
Main Genre
Sci-Fi
Writers
Miguel Llansó
What is Infinite Summer About?
The joys of summer include sunshine, friendship, and, in this case, encountering enigmatic mindfulness app developers. As Mia (Teele Kaljuvee-O’Brock) approaches adulthood, she plans a summer getaway with her best friend Grete (Johanna Rosin) in Tallinn, Estonia. However, Grete’s newfound interest in the worldly Sarah (Hannah Gross) creates a rift between them. The group’s Extreme Dating app leads them to the peculiar Dr. Mindfulness, who offers Mia a mindfulness app featuring a strange respirator and mysterious inhalants. Mia’s initial skepticism turns into curiosity when the app introduces her to ‘Eleusis’, a surreal, smoke-filled wormhole. As the device’s effects become more pronounced, it alters their perceptions and attracts the attention of Interpol detectives investigating a related cyber-crime.
The film provides a surreal take on the trials of growing up and self-discovery. Mia, distanced from her fast-maturing friend and grappling with her own desires and life choices, finds herself drawn to an AI-driven drug with transformative effects. The device serves as both a catalyst for change and a source of intrigue, with a larger, more bizarre scheme unfolding behind it. Infinite Summer offers a unique and thought-provoking exploration of self-acceptance and personal growth.
‘Infinite Summer’ Is an Enigmatic, Drug-Fueled, Mind-Bending Coming-of-Age Tale
At its heart, Infinite Summer revolves around Mia, portrayed by Teele Kaljuvee-O’Brock, who navigates a chaotic world with a nuanced performance. The film excels in its surreal sci-fi elements, but Mia’s grounded moments, especially her interactions with her father (Ivo Uukkivi), are particularly engaging. The dynamics between Mia, Grete, and Sisi (Sissi Nylia Benita) highlight the emotional depth of the story.
The mindfulness app in Infinite Summer is a clever narrative device, exploring Mia’s need for personal transformation and connection. The app’s surreal program, featuring a communal and somewhat bizarre experience, affects the characters in various ways. As Grete and Sarah become deeply involved, Mia’s own attempt at using the app reveals its limitations and promises. The film’s exploration of connection and self-acceptance is enriched by these mystical elements.
While Infinite Summer does not answer every question it raises, leaving some narrative details open to interpretation, it provides an intriguing journey into self-discovery. Its surreal approach and occasionally obscure plot devices might blunt the emotional impact, but the film remains a fascinating and warm exploration of personal growth. With its inventive take on coming-of-age themes, Infinite Summer stands out as a distinctive and thought-provoking film.
‘Infinite Summer’ Is Enigmatic, Warm, Complex, and Unmissable
Infinite Summer presents a unique blend of breezy visuals, profound themes, and complex plot elements. Its enigmatic nature and layered storytelling invite analysis and interpretation, much like the Mona Lisa. While the film’s abstract narrative and surreal devices may sometimes diminish its emotional impact, Mia’s journey reflects the experiences of many who take time to embrace their true selves. Infinite Summer is a remarkable coming-of-age tale that, despite its occasional confusion, offers a compelling and heartfelt experience.
