The Summer I Turned Pretty is a compelling coming-of-age romantic drama series that captivated audiences worldwide. Premiering on June 17, 2022, on Amazon Prime Video, the show is based on Jenny Han's bestselling novel trilogy of the same name. Han, renowned for her work on To All the Boys I've Loved Before, also serves as the creator and showrunner, bringing her heartfelt storytelling to the screen.
Plot Overview
Set against the backdrop of sun-soaked summers at Cousins Beach, the series follows Isabel "Belly" Conklin (portrayed by Lola Tung), a teenager caught in a love triangle with brothers Conrad (Christopher Briney) and Jeremiah Fisher (Gavin Casalegno). As Belly navigates the complexities of first love, heartbreak, and self-discovery, the series delves into themes of family bonds, friendship, and the bittersweet passage of time.
Cast and Characters
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Lola Tung as Isabel "Belly" Conklin
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Christopher Briney as Conrad Fisher
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Gavin Casalegno as Jeremiah Fisher
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Jackie Chung as Laurel Conklin
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Rachel Blanchard as Susannah Fisher
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Sean Kaufman as Steven Conklin
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Alfredo Narciso as Cleveland Castillo
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Minnie Mills as Shayla
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Colin Ferguson as John Conklin
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Tom Everett Scott as Adam Fisher
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Rain Spencer as Taylor Jewel
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Elsie Fisher as Skye
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Kyra Sedgwick as Julia
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Isabella Briggs as Nicole
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Kristen Connolly as Aunt Julia
Production and Reception
The series was produced by Amazon MGM Studios, wiip, Sunswept Entertainment, Jenny Kissed Me, Big Red Bus, and Neon Stories. Filming took place in Wilmington, North Carolina, capturing the essence of the coastal setting. The show's cinematography, led by J.B. Smith, Sandra Valde-Hansen, and Tarin Anderson, beautifully complements the narrative, immersing viewers in the world of Cousins Beach.
Critically acclaimed, The Summer I Turned Pretty holds an 88% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes for its first season, with an average rating of 7.1/10. Metacritic assigns it a score of 72 out of 100, indicating "generally favorable reviews." The series' nostalgic tone, relatable characters, and emotional depth have resonated with audiences, making it a standout in the coming-of-age genre.
Musical Influence
Music plays a pivotal role in the series, with an original score by composer Zachary Dawes. The soundtrack features prominent pop "needle drops," enhancing key emotional moments. Notably, Taylor Swift's music has been featured throughout the series, including tracks like "Lover," "The Way I Loved You (Taylor’s Version)," and "False God," adding to the show's nostalgic appeal.
Conclusion
The Summer I Turned Pretty is more than just a teen romance; it's a poignant exploration of love, loss, and growth. With its compelling storyline, talented cast, and evocative soundtrack, the series has solidified its place as a beloved adaptation of Jenny Han's literary work. Whether you're a fan of the books or new to the story, the show offers a heartfelt journey that resonates with viewers of all ages.
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