Films that transport...
First off, Helen Mirren is one of my favorite actresses, so I was already interested in viewing one of her first roles before knowing the content of "Age of Consent". James Mason was is dashing self, as expected but the real magic of this film, was in its ability to transport one smack-dab into a summer experience. Most of it is filmed in the energetic brightness of early daylight--sparkling water and steamy sand included--or the magic of summer moonlight. The colors of water and reef are brilliant and overexposed with brightness; just like a fresh, hot day at the shore in early summer would appear. There is also something about the background music that reminds me of t.v. movies that would be on during during summer vacations. Needless to say, "Age of Consent" has earned a place amongst my list of films that inspires travel and leisure.
Yes, some of characters are essentially caricatures and Helen Mirren is nude during most of the film (but even nudity can't distract from the authenticity of her talent and this hilarious performance). Despite this (and for many viewers, it will likely be BECAUSE of this) I recommend that you view "Age of Consent" at least once. Preferably during one of those "lost" mid-summer days when there's nothing that needs to get done besides walking in buggy woods, exploring warm dirt roads or reading besides the shore.
What do you think about it? What summer experiences does it remind you of (if any)?