Instead of the whodunit theme of most mysteries, this incomprehensible film seems to ask, "What was it?" The camera remains focused on Joyce Grasse (Jean Seberg), wife of a famous architect, as she goes from room to room in her apartment, runs from unidentified men, and drives her car aimlessly through the streets of a Moroccan city in which she lives. Joyce has obviously committed a terrible crime (did she murder her husband?) and her mental torment drives her to insanity. Unfortunately, the montage of her wanderings, poorly directed by Nelo Risi, neither reveals her agony nor explains the mystery. It simply presents a confusing and unrevealing series of unconnected elements. The only plus is the beautiful photography. Ms. Seberg was undeniably glamorous but herein she is unconvincing unless striking a pose or exhibiting a series of pained expressions. In addition, her apparent nude scenes are all very obvious body doubles.
Review of Dead of Summer
