Discussing Captain Dumitriu 's suicide attempt , John Simon writes : " It is visually stunning and emotionally shattering , but it may be a bit too theatrical . Still , with such writing , directing , and acting — most prominently from Kristin Scott-Thomas and Claudiu Bleonţ as the Dumitrius , but also from the rest — what is a small faux pas ? This film resonates in the memory , insistently and inspiredly . " Simon also discusses the cinematography , arguing that Călin Ghibu 's use of lighting manages to convey the " almost unearthly beauty at sunset " , which helps viewers understand why Scott Thompson 's character uses Mount Fuji as her preferred metaphor for the place . Of this aspect , James notes : " Like its heroine , the film 's serene and beautiful appearance masks a powerful conscience . " The overall positive reception offered by the critics did not materialize in significant box-office success or international awards : '' An Unforgettable Summer '' unsuccessfully completed for the Palme d'Or during the 1994 Cannes Film Festival . Of the film 's implications and its reduced impact in Romania , Tronaru concludes : " The ravages of nationalism are the same regardless of the communities involved ... . Of course Pintilie 's uncomfortable message was not accepted in its essence , the film registering only the success of reverence towards the director . " Tronaru also notes that the film 's high standard of quality was a peak in Pintilie 's career , and that it was no longer reached by the director until 2001 , when he released '' După-amiaza unui torţionar ''
1994 Cannes Film Festival
1994 Cannes Film Festival
An Unforgettable Summer