DVD Corner

Last Summer Blu-ray Review

“Last Summer” explores the dark side of adolescence.   

Based on the novel of the same name by Evan Hunter and adapted for the screen by Eleanor Perry, “Last Summer” is a 1969 coming-of-age story. The story begins with teen pals Dan and Peter encountering a teen woman (Sandy) tending to a wounded seagull. The 2 decide to help her out and eventually begin to form a tight-knit bond together as they nurse the seagull back to health over time. Dan and Peter also desire Sandy and Sandy claims to love them both. Eventually the three befriend another teen (Rhoda) who is a bit nerdy, anxious, lonely and seems to harbor a great deal of pain. In general, the four spend a great deal of time messing around the beach of Fire Island while drinking, pulling pranks, sharing personal thoughts, etc. Things aren’t all rosy though as behaviors become increasingly more unsettling.

Coming-of-age films tend to be more nostalgic, fun, and romantic affairs, but “Last Summer” is definitely not that type of movie. Director Frank Perry explores the dark side of teen life in a film that feels dangerous in a way that the best 60s and 70s films often did. “Last Summer” is an unnerving troubled youth story about sexuality, jealousy, immaturity, peer pressure, desire, entitlement, and cruelty. The film strives for realism and succeeds. There’s a very raw, free flowing feel to the whole proceedings as it shuns a traditional narrative in favor of following these characters. The concepts of “It’s all fun and games until someone gets hurt” and “not thinking about the consequences of one’s actions” definitely play into the story heavily as it leads to a disturbing and shocking ending. The film has developed a bit of a cult following over the years and deservedly so. Not only is it a film that still feels as powerful and relevant now, but it feels like it’s due for rediscovery (especially with this Blu-ray release).

The cast is what really makes the film work as well as it does. It’s essentially a 4 person show here with Bruce Davison, Barbara Hershey, Richard Thomas and Catherine Burns. It’s hard to believe that this is the same Richard Thomas of “The Waltons” fame. He shows real range here and his final scene is unforgettable. Barbara Hershey has had a long storied career, but this is easily one of her most dynamic and bold performances. Bruce Davison has the least to do character wise, but is still impressive. Last, but certainly not least there’s Catherine Burns as Rhoda (the character who has the most humanity). Her impressive work earned her a deserved Oscar nomination.

Video/Audio:

Presentation: 1.85:1 1080p. How does it look? In typical Warner Archive fashion, this film has been given a gorgeous restoration that was scanned in 4K. The colors really pop here.

Audio Track: 2.0 DTS-HD MA. How does it sound? Expect a nice clean audio track

Extras:
* Theatrical trailer
* A new commentary by screenwriter Larry Karaszewski and film historian Justin Bozung.
* A booklet featuring an essay by Larry Karaszewski
* A deleted scene
* Allied Artists Promo Reel
* “Trailer From Hell” segment with commentary by Larry Karaszewski.
* 2 2026 Q&As. One from the American Cinematheque with Barbara Hershey, Bruce Davison, and Larry Karaszewski and the other from the Paris Theater with Richard Thomas and Larry Karaszewski.

July 19, 2026 - Posted by nicklyons1 | Blu-Ray review | 60's Film, Barbara Hershey, Bruce Davison, Catherine Burns, Coming Of Age Film, Last Summer Blu-ray Review, Richard Thomas, Warner Archive