Aftersun

AFTERSUN (2022)

I’m such a sucker for these unimposing indie films where, on the surface, not very much happens. I can’t articulate why I fall so in love with them. But here we are.

Dad Calum takes his 11 year old daughter Sophie on a holiday to Turkey. And that’s it. But I was hooked throughout. It’s simply about the relationship of a father (separated from the mother) gripping on to some quality time with his daughter.

The two leads are naturally sublime. Their chemistry is genuine and grounded. As Sophie, newcomer Frankie Corio comfortably holds court. With his Oscar nomination for Best Leading Actor Paul Mescal’s rise has been nothing short of meteoric. This is, what, his fourth project since Normal People? The dream.

Rewarded with a BAFTA for Outstanding Debut, writer/director Charlotte Wells nails the vibe of a late 90’s resort holiday with your folks. The awkward friendships you’re kind of forced to make. A plethora of different UK dialects. The silences. The evenings watching the light entertainment. Speaking of which; it’s so wonderful watching these characters sitting there without their phones to rescue them from their boredom.

To support Wells’ time travel adventure she selects the most evocative soundtrack taking me right back to 1999; Catatonia, The Lightning Seeds, Blur… All Saints’ Never Ever. I’m there, and it’s paradise.

A very easy going, well paced and likeable film. It succeeds in making me feel just as depressed that the holiday is coming to an end as I would if I was actually there.

10 Tender Thumbs Up 👍🏻