The background and conditions under which this film (part of HBO's Proejct Greenlight) was produced and documented (with step-by-step accuracy, humor, and cynicism, and self-importance) overshadow by far its underwhelming artistic merits; it's a clunker
Stolen Summer (2002)
Runtime: 1 hr 33 mins
Synopsis: After being selected as the winner of the PROJECT GREENLIGHT screenwriting contest, Pete Jones got the chance to make his script, STOLEN SUMMER, into a film while an HBO crew taped the process for a reality TV series. The film tells the story of an Irish Catholic boy, Pete (Adi Stein), growing up... After being selected as the winner of the PROJECT GREENLIGHT screenwriting contest, Pete Jones got the chance to make his script, STOLEN SUMMER, into a film while an HBO crew taped the process for a reality TV series. The film tells the story of an Irish Catholic boy, Pete (Adi Stein), growing up in 1976 Chicago. Pete becomes concerned that, as one nun at school has repeatedly told him, he's going to go to hell. He decides that the way into heaven is to convert Jews to Catholicism and makes that his mission. The understanding Rabbi Jacobsen (Kevin Pollak) appreciates Pete's interest in religion and encourages Pete on his "quest." Their lives are further intertwined when a fire breaks out at the rabbi's house, and Pete's father, Joe (Aidan Quinn), a fireman, saves the life of the rabbi's son, Danny (Mike Weinberg). Danny and Pete become friends and think up ways for Danny to be accepted into heaven. STOLEN SUMMER demonstrates Jones' genuine talent as a filmmaker, particularly in the strong performances, while his moving script captures a boy's perspective on friendship and religious belief. STOLEN SUMMER was produced by actors Matt Damon and Ben Affleck, co-creators of PROJECT GREENLIGHT. [More]
Genre: Comedies
Starring: Adi Stein, Mike Weinberg, Aidan Quinn, Kevin Pollak, Bonnie Hunt
Screenwriter: Pete Jones
Producer: Ben Affleck, Matt Damon, Chris Moore, Patrick Peach
Composer: Danny Lux
DVD Info
Release:
Feb 1, 2004
Reviews
The young stars are too cute; the story and ensuing complications are too manipulative; the message is too blatant; the resolutions are too convenient.
Jones has delivered a solidly entertaining and moving family drama.
Debut effort by "Project Greenlight" winner is sappy and amateurish.
A period story about a Catholic boy who tries to help a Jewish friend get into heaven by sending the audience straight to hell.
A sweet, engaging family story about the nature of faith and the power of youthful innocence.
The behind the scenes series is more interesting than the resulting movie, but it's still worth taking a look.
Related Forums
by: Eaglez 1/10/03
News
posted by Scott Weinberg September 19, 2005
Pete Jones' spec script for the comedy "Hall Pass" has been picked up by Fox, and the moviemakers are looking...
