New in Theaters: 'Kings of Summer' - A Comedy about Rural Life

'Kings of Summer' is a fresh addition to the film landscape, offering a unique perspective on rural life through humor. The French comedy centers on a young man named Totone, who faces significant challenges after the sudden death of his father.

At 18, Totone lives on the family farm with his father and younger sister. He spends his days socializing with friends, drinking, and flirting, but his carefree life is turned upside down when tragedy strikes. Following his father's fatal accident, Totone must take charge of his family's affairs and care for his seven-year-old sister while also trying to save their farm.

In a bid to find a solution, Totone learns about a prestigious competition for producing the best Comté cheese, a renowned hard cheese from the Franche-Comté region of France. The competition not only promises a gold medal but also a cash prize of EUR30,000, which could be the key to saving their farm.

Despite his lack of knowledge about cheese-making, Totone embarks on this ambitious project. To secure the necessary raw milk, he enlists the help of a spirited young farmer, whose brothers happen to be Totone's rivals. Amidst the comedic chaos of his friends stealing milk while he navigates a budding romance, the film paints a vivid picture of youthful determination and rural challenges.

Directed by Louise Courvoisier, 'Kings of Summer' is her debut feature film, showcasing a raw yet heartfelt portrayal of rural youth. Born in Geneva but raised on a farm in Cressia, Courvoisier draws on her personal experiences to present a narrative that reflects the realities of young people living in the countryside.

In interviews, she expressed her desire to highlight the rural youth culture that often goes unnoticed. She aims to share stories from her upbringing, capturing a reality that is both familiar and rarely discussed in mainstream media.

To enhance the film's authenticity, Courvoisier opted to work with non-professional actors who bring genuine rural accents and backgrounds to their roles. Clément Faveau, portraying Totone, is employed on a chicken farm, while Maïwène Barthelemy, who plays Marie-Lise, is a trainee in agriculture.

Visually stunning, the film features breathtaking imagery of the Jura mountains and effectively balances moments of melancholy with joy. 'Kings of Summer' encapsulates a rural reality that ranges from cheese production to the intricacies of youthful sexuality and the responsibilities of farm life.

Courvoisier adeptly navigates themes of poverty without portraying farmers as mere victims. Instead, she celebrates the passion and resilience of her characters, weaving a narrative that resonates with audiences. The film's humanistic approach has drawn comparisons to the works of Ken Loach, known for his social realism.

At the Cannes Film Festival, 'Kings of Summer' received the 'Prix de la Jeunesse' in the 'Un Certain Regard' category, marking a significant recognition for Courvoisier's work.