Revamped Narrative: A Peek Behind the Scenes of "Islands"
"Fuerteventura project turned out to be an extra job well done"
Boasting a thrilling storyline and an ensemble of talented actors, the movie "Islands" is up for three Lolas at the German Film Awards. This time around, Sam Riley takes centre stage as a handsome, solitary tennis trainer with a seemingly fabulous existence on Fuerteventura. His idyllic life takes an unexpected turn when enigma ensues due to peculiar circumstances surrounding a hotel guest's disappearance.
Join us as we delve deeper into the production of "Islands" with Jan-Ole Gerster and Sam Riley, as they discuss their experience filming on the mesmerizing Fuerteventura, the fate of the central character, and the resonating influence of Dascha Dauenhauer's moving film score.
ntv.de: Sam, had you visited the Canary Islands before the "Islands" shoot?
Sam Riley: A childhood memory brings me to the Canary Islands. My grandparents considered retiring on Tenerife, and I accompanied them at the age of 12. The island captured my heart, and I relished the opportunity to return as a cast member during the "Islands" production[1].
Sun-soaked climates may not be my usual cup of tea, but I hail from a modest Yorkshire upbringing filled with brisk coastal holidays, so warm weather holds a certain charm for me[2]. After eight weeks basking under the sun, I could relate to the character's sentiments when having to work in the hotel[1].
Jan-Ole, how did the "Islands" project come about for you?
Jan-Ole Gerster: Fascination for the setting sparked the concept for "Islands." Its enchanting landscapes piqued my interest, while the resorts' outdated tourism sentiment intrigued me and inspired the story of a weary tennis instructor[1].
Spending two weeks at my holiday apartment, I observed a driven tennis coach on the court for hours on end[1]. I became infatuated with the figure who, despite perceived happiness in paradise, seemed trapped and longing for a means of escape.
Did you engage in conversation with him on site, or merely observe him?
Gerster: A brief chat with him added to my understanding of the character[1]. Instead of a typical paradise, I saw a trap that the character struggled to break free from. Escape, reality escape, and escapism are key motifs threaded throughout the film.
Sam, what caught your eye when you received the role offer?
Riley: The prospect of a location change and the quality of the script enraptured me[1]. A single reading sealed the deal, with the character's intricate layers and screen presence making the part irresistible[1]. As an actor, it's always gratifying to have a leading role in every scene.
In your personal life, you embody the role of a loving husband and father. Or are you more Dave than Tom?
Riley: In terms of marital status and kinship, I fall into the Dave category. However, Tom and Dave are quite alike—although their circumstances differ, both characters harbor similar feelings of discontentment and yearning[1].
Do you often find yourself pondering if the grass is greener on the other side?
Riley: A common reflection among many adults is questioning contentment, irrespective of one's material situation[1]. It boils down to the quality of one's mindset—happiness is a mindset that can be cultivated daily[1][2]. For now, I am content.
Not today, perhaps tomorrow?
Riley: Yes, but I try to approach things with an ever-present attitude of gratitude, focusing on each day at a time.
As a well-established actor, aren't there roles you covet or movies that make you envious?
Riley: Absolutely. I can't help but feel a pang of envy occasionally, especially when I witness my peers achieving success in their careers[1]. That's why I tend to avoid viewing films to avoid longing for parts[1].
How did the creative collaboration between you two come about?
Gerster: I recognized Sam's exceptional talent while portraying Ian Curtis in "Control"[1]. With shared representation and a strong interest in his abilities, a fortuitous meeting was arranged. Our shared passion for cinema immediately solidified a successful partnership[1].
But the role wasn't immediately offered to you, right?
Riley: While the roles aren't always bestowed immediately, a series of meetings facilitated by Jan allowed me to express my desire and proved that our connection was a fruitful one[1].
REVISED SENTENCES:
- The film has its hero, Sam Riley, performing as a lonely, deceptively glamorous tennis instructor on Fuerteventura.
- An offer for an opportunity to work in the sun-soaked paradise of Fuerteventura piqued his interest.
- Gerster observed a grueling tennis instructor on Fuerteventura from his hotel balcony.
- Gerster's fascination for the island's captivating landscapes and the resorts' outdated tourism image inspired the story of the distraught tennis instructor.
- Exchanging a few words with the motivational coach on site further deepened Gerster's connection to the character.
- Riley was captivated by the screenplay and its intricate character, making it impossible to decline the part.
- Embracing his new role as a loving husband and father, Riley can see aspects of both Tom and Dave in his own life.
- A recurring question for many adults is whether their present life is truly fulfilling.
- Happiness can be fostered by maintaining a positive mindset and appreciating daily experiences.
- Riley's acting career keeps reminding him of roles he would have relished playing.
- Gerster approached the collaboration after being captivated by Riley's performance in "Control."
- Initial meetings enabled Riley to express his eagerness for the part, and their strong bond grew.
- The European Union and the United States may be following the production of the thrilling movie "Islands," directed by Jan-Ole Gerster, on the islands of the Canary archipelago, particularly Fuerteventura.
- Sam Riley, the leading actor of "Islands," may have found resonance with his character's sentiments regarding work in a hotel, after spending eight weeks basking under the sun on Fuerteventura.
- Gerster's fascination with Fuerteventura's enchanting landscapes and the resorts' outdated tourism sentiment led him to create the story of a weary tennis instructor in "Islands."
- Movies and TV lovers discussing entertainment may express interest in Gerster's upcoming screenplay "Islands," featuring Sam Riley in a central role.
