Prime Video has once again captivated audiences with a swoon-worthy book-to-screen adaptation, Every Year After. Based on Carley Fortune’s debut novel Every Summer Afterthe series follows the tumultuous romance between Sam and Percy, set against the idyllic backdrop of Canadian lake cottages in Barry’s Bay, Ontario.
The series, however, is set in British Columbia for narrative purposes, marking one of several departures from the original novel. As Fortune recently shared, adapting the book into a visual medium was a surreal and humbling experience, seeing her story brought to life by a talented team of artists and craftspeople.
Two Timelines, One Emotional Journey
The narrative of Every Summer After unfolds across two timelines. The past timeline begins with 13-year-old Percy, who befriends her neighbors, the Florek brothers Sam and Charlie, and their widowed mother, Sue, after her parents buy a summer cottage in Barry’s Bay. Over the years, Percy and Sam develop a close bond, eventually confessing their feelings for each other. However, their relationship faces challenges when Sam distances himself to focus on college, leading Percy to make a decision she regrets.
Twelve years later, in the present timeline, Percy, now a magazine editor, returns to Barry’s Bay after being invited by Charlie to attend Sue’s funeral. This reunion sparks a series of emotional confrontations and revelations, ultimately setting the stage for Percy and Sam to reconcile and potentially build a future together.
Adapting the Novel: Changes and Insights
While the series stays true to the core of Fortune’s novel, it introduces several changes. One notable difference is the timing of Sam’s discovery of Percy’s betrayal. In the book, Sam learns about Percy’s past actions during the present timeline, leaving their future open-ended. The series, however, suggests a more immediate resolution, hinting at a potential Season 2 to explore their romantic future further.
Showrunner Amy B. Harris emphasizes that the story is about being on a precipice and the decisions that follow. She believes that these coming-of-age stories resonate with audiences because they reflect the uncertainties and challenges we all face in life. Harris also highlights the importance of nostalgic elements, allowing viewers to relive or reimagine significant moments from their own lives.
Symbolism and Storytelling
The series employs subtle symbolism to connect the past and present timelines. For instance, Percy’s red swimsuit, a powerful moment from her past, is echoed in the present timeline, symbolizing her journey of self-discovery and growth. Harris explains that these visual cues help ground the story emotionally and create a seamless transition between the two timelines.
The Soundtrack: A Musical Journey
The soundtrack of Every Year After plays a crucial role in setting the tone and enhancing the emotional depth of the series. Harris reveals that she had a clear vision for the music from the beginning, incorporating a mix of pop, bluegrass, and Dolly Parton to create an Americana vibe that resonates with the Canadian setting. The series features songs by artists like Harry Styles, Billie Eilish, and Noah Kahan, adding to its nostalgic and romantic atmosphere.
The Impact of Sue’s Character
Sue, the matriarch of the Florek family, plays a significant role in the series. Harris explains that she wanted to develop Sue’s character further, showcasing her influence on Percy’s life. The series includes scenes that highlight Sue’s understanding and support of Percy, adding depth to their relationship. Elisha Cuthbert’s portrayal of Sue brings an added layer of authenticity and emotional resonance to the character.
Every Year After is a testament to the power of adaptation, bringing a fresh perspective to Carley Fortune’s beloved novel. With its emotional depth, nostalgic elements, and compelling storytelling, the series is sure to captivate audiences and leave them eager for more.
