Watch My Best Summer

My Best Summer, a Chinese coming-of-age film, premiered in July 2019. Directed by Zhang Dalei, the movie boasts a talented cast, led by Arthur Chen, Haha He, and Kara Wai. The story sets in the year 1998, and revolves around thirteen-year-old Xiaoming, played by Arthur Chen. Xiaoming has just ended his primary school education, and summer vacation is about to start. He is looking forward to spending his free time watching TV, playing video games, and hanging out with his friends. However, his mother has other plans for him.

Against Xiaoming's wishes, his mother signs him up for a summer camp, where he is surrounded by girls and is the only boy in the group. Xiaoming feels out of place and is mocked by the girls for being different. However, Xiaoming's life takes an unexpected turn when he meets a spirited and rebellious girl named Xiaotong, played by Haha He.

Over time, Xiaoming becomes increasingly fascinated by Xiaotong, and they form an unlikely bond despite their different personalities. Xiaoming learns valuable life lessons from Xiaotong, who is wise beyond her years, and begins to come out of his shell. Under Xiaotong's guidance, he conquers his fears and becomes more self-aware. The story is also interwoven with Xiaoming’s family dynamics and his father’s battle with cancer.

As the summer progresses, Xiaoming discovers that he is in love with Xiaotong, and he must find the courage to confess his feelings for her. Their relationship evolves slowly but surely, developing with gentleness and innocence. We see how they change each other in subtle ways.

My Best Summer is a wholesome film, filled with heart and good vibes. It is a refreshing change from the usual Kung-fu and action movies that China is known for. Director Zhang Dalei has managed to capture the essence of adolescence perfectly. The film reflects the innocent yet challenging period of teenage life, where discovering oneself can be both exciting and intimidating.

The performances by the actors are outstanding, especially by young Arthur Chen, who plays Xiaoming. Despite being a newcomer, his naturalistic performance captures the character's innocence and vulnerability. He portrays the character with honesty and sincerity, ensuring the audience sympathizes with Xiaoming's journey.

Haha He, who plays Xiaotong, is also brilliant. Her portrayal of the character is relatable, and her powerful acting makes the audience want to root for her. Her character is well-rounded, and her depth adds to the film's emotional core.

The cinematography in the film is also noteworthy, reflecting the beauty of the Chinese landscapes during summer. The camera work captures the idyllic camp setting and the joys of summer, from the first blossom to the final clap of the thunderstorm.

Overall, My Best Summer is a must-watch movie for all ages. It provides an honest portrayal of adolescence, evoking memories of our own summers as teenagers. The film is a heartwarming reminder of the beauty of youth, and the importance of friendships and love. It leaves the audience with a sense of nostalgia, for a summer that has long gone, but will forever be cherished.

My Best Summer is a 2019 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 49 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.0.