Plot Details: This opinion reveals major details about the movie's plot.

Yes, it's the dreaded CHICK FLICK.

It's the turn of the century in southwestern England. A young lawyer, Frank Ashton, and his friend, are on a hiking tour through the countryside.

Attempting to jump a gate, Frank injures his ankle, and they realize he needs help. Fortunately, there is a farmhouse nearby. They happen upon a lovely country girl, Megan David, out hanging the wash. She takes them back to the farmhouse, and her "aunt" tells him he can stay for a few shillings a week-- they have an extra room.

It's obvious from the first that there is an attraction between Megan and Frank-- which becomes a bit complicated, when he realizes that it is understood that she will marry the family's oldest son, the hulky farmhand, Joe. Megan is an orphan who was taken in by the family.

But as so often happens, the attraction carries them both away. They begin meeting in secret, and soon the family realizes that it is time for Mr. Ashton to leave. He promises to come back for her when he has some money-- his traveling budget is just about gone.

He heads to nearby Torquay to have some money wired from his bank in London. Complications arise however, and he has to wait longer than expected for the money.

Meanwhile, he runs into an old school chum in Torquay on vacation with his sisters...two adolescents, and the older and very stylish Stella. He begins to question his attraction to the unsophisticated country girl.

I don't want to give away anymore. You simply must see this beautiful movie. Especially if you are a romantic, and love historically-flavored films. It deals with regret and loss, and has been one of my favorites for many years.

If you are into English public TV, or art house films, you may recognize James Wilby (as Ashton) or Imogen Stubbs (as Megan). Auntie is the still radiant Susannah York.

A Summer Story is adapted from the John Galsworthy short story "The Apple Tree."

Recommended: Yes

Viewing Format: VHS
Video Occasion: Good for a Rainy Day
Suitability For Children: Suitable for Children Age 13 and Older