Summer of '42 is a coming-of-age drama film directed by Robert Mulligan and released in 1971. Set during the summer of 1942 on Nantucket Island, the film follows the story of Hermie, a 15-year-old boy who spends his days hanging out with his friends Oscy and Benjie and dreaming about girls.
One day, Hermie and his friends encounter a group of older women vacationing on the island, including the beautiful and enigmatic Dorothy. Despite the age difference, Hermie is smitten with Dorothy and sets out to woo her.
As the summer progresses, Hermie spends more and more time with Dorothy, and they form a close bond. However, their relationship is complicated by the fact that Dorothy's husband is a pilot serving in World War II. When Hermie discovers that Dorothy's husband has been killed in action, he realizes that his feelings for her are more than just a passing infatuation.
Summer of '42 is a poignant and bittersweet film that explores themes of love, loss, and coming of age. It was a critical and commercial success upon its release, winning an Academy Award for Best Music, Original Dramatic Score, and earning three further nominations.