You are here:

Summer Times

Name: Summer Times
Director: Huang Chao-liang
Released: 2009
Duration: 96 min

Representation Score

4.5/10

Fair

2009

Director

Huang Chao-liang

Runtime

96 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Summer Times is a localized romantic drama that focuses on emotional resonance and personal connections. It operates within a conventional genre framework, emphasizing the intimate bond between two characters during a summer holiday. The film provides a culturally specific perspective by centering on East Asian identities and the setting of Kinmen Island. This moves the narrative away from Anglo-centric storytelling norms, though it remains within conventional emotional boundaries. Ultimately, the work lacks engagement with the overlapping aspects of identity or the disruption of social hierarchies. It remains a character-driven piece focused on personal memory and interpersonal promises.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does Summer Times have LGBTQ+ representation?

Fair

The film follows a traditional romantic relationship between Ah Kwan and Chen Wen Qing. There are no characters with non-binary or LGBTQ+ identities, nor does it critique the assumption that everyone is straight or cisgender.

How does Summer Times portray gender?

Fair

Chen Wen Qing is a central figure known for her role as a piano champion. However, the story follows a conventional romantic storyline for her character.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Summer Times?

Fair

Set on Kinmen Island, the film features a cast reflecting the local population. It offers a culturally specific narrative centered on East Asian identities.

How does Summer Times represent religion and culture?

Fair

The story emphasizes personal sentiment and seasonal nostalgia. It leans into traditional romance clichés rather than exploring broader societal or institutional themes.

Does Summer Times include disability representation?

Minimal

The narrative contains no mention of characters dealing with physical, neurodivergent, or mental health conditions.

Present on Screen

Provides a localized perspective through its East Asian setting and regional demographic.
Features a female protagonist with professional merit and individual ability to act.

Limited or Absent

Lacks exploration of non-binary or LGBTQ+ identities.
Follows conventional romantic clichés rather than challenging social or institutional structures.
Does not address disability or neurodivergent experiences.

Official Synopsis

While going back to Kinmen island during summer, Ah Kwan (Bryant Chang) learns from the internet about a pretty girl called Chen Wen Qing (Shara Lin), who emerged champion in the National Piano Competition. One day he coincidentally meets up with her. For both this is the best summer holiday they ever had in their lives. Before going back Wen Qing promises to Ah Kwan she would email him everyday and coming next summer, she would find him in Kinmen again.

How are these scores produced? →