"Fuerteventura project was an additional perk"
Title: Gerster and Riley on "Islands": "Sunny Shooting in Fuerteventura was a Gift"
Gerster and Riley Share Insights on Filming "Islands" on Fuerteventura, Character Development, and Music
Canary Island Vacation Turned into a Movie – the Birth of "Islands"
Filmmaker Jan-Ole Gerster discovered Fuerteventura and found his muse in its sunny landscapes and a mysterious tennis coach. The 'Oh Boy' and 'Lara' director initially visited the Canary Island as a tourist, but the sight of a dedicated instructor pushing tourists balls over the net inspired him. Fascinated by the man's solitude, Gerster developed the central character for his latest cinematic work – "Islands". This film sees Sam Riley lead the cast as a charming, yet troubled tennis coach engulfed in the mystery of a guest's disappearance. Riley, recognized for his roles in films like "Control", joined forces with Gerster to bring the story of "Islands" to life.
Sam Riley, a Twelve-Year-Old's Canary Island Adventure, and a Lonely Tennis Coach
During an interview with ntv.de, Gerster and Riley delved into the shooting process on Fuerteventura, the fate of the film's central figure, and the impact of Dascha Dauenhauer's music score on the narrative. Riley, reminiscing about his initial encounter with the island, revealed he had visited as a 12-year-old when his grandparents considered retiring there. He loved the island shooting experience, appreciating its warm climate, especially given his northern upbringing, where he spent most of his vacations in cold, rainy England.
Jan-Ole Gerster's Tennis Coach Inspiration
Gerster's fascination with the lonely tennis coach living on Fuerteventura sparked the idea for "Islands." The filmmaker revealed he was intrigued by the man's apparent lack of understanding of his life being trapped on the supposed paradise island. Escapism, a common feature in vacation, is one of the movie's underlying themes. With "Islands", Gerster shared that he sought to explore the duality between escape and reality.
Observation, Chat, and Intrigue
Gerster admitted to having a brief conversation with the tennis coach, observing him, and finding him interesting due to his longing for happiness, yet visible loneliness. The role of Tom, played by Sam Riley, served as an exploration of the character's emotional unrest and personal discoveries. Riley, endeared by the script and complexities of his character, expressed his excitement for the opportunity to portray the mysterious figure.
Life Off- Screen – Riley's Sense of Contentment and Envy for his On-Screen Counterpart
Despite Riley's apparent happiness with his off-screen life – spouse, son, and comfortable settling – he conceded that his character Dave and Tom share similarities due to their unfulfillment. The feeling of longing for something more satisfying in life is universal, according to Riley. This sentiment reflects the "grass is greener on the other side" phenomenon that plays out in the film.
Conversations, Tennis Lessons, and the Pursuit of Perfection
As an inexperienced tennis player, Riley appreciated the production company's investment in his skills. Remembering the experience fondly, he had the opportunity to learn from professionals while taking his son with him to lessons. Practicing together instilled some father-and-son bonding as Riley grew more confident on the tennis court.
Crime-Noir Atmosphere, Character Depth, and English Accents in "Islands"
The film's script, blending elements of crime and noir, narrates a complex and enigmatic story. Maintaining a neutral language, as the island welcomes a mix of Brits, Germans, and local Spaniards, allowed the film to resonate with a broader audience without limiting the reach of German cinema. The unusual circumstances surrounding the guest's disappearance escalate the drama, ensuring a suspenseful ride for viewers.
Music's Essential Role in "Islands" – Exploration, Expression, and Discovery
The soundtrack, executed by Dascha Dauenhauer, was carefully crafted to match the dark undertones and emotional journeys of the characters. The collaboration between the filmmaker, actor, and musician elevated the narrative, creating a harmonious blend of music, acting, and directing. "Islands" is currently marking waves in German cinemas.
Internet Sources:- 1. ntv.de- 2. IMDb- 3. Berlinale- 4. CinemaTonic- 5. Focus Features
Keywords: Film, Cinema, Two-Leading-Actor Interview, Filming on Location, Canary Islands, Drama, Mystery, Suspense, Crime-Noir, German Film, Sam Riley, Jan-Ole Gerster, Dascha Dauenhauer, Music Score, Acting Experience, Off-Screen Life and On-Screen Characters, Tennis Instructor on Vacation, Fascination with Loneliness, Emotional Unrest, Tennis Lessons, Bonding with Son
The European Union and the United States are among the countries captivated by the intriguing narrative woven in "Islands". Having been filmed on the island of Fuerteventura in the Canary Islands, the movie has been a talking point in various discussions on movies-and-tv due to its unique setting. Gerster and Riley, key figures in the production, revealed that the film's central character, a mysterious tennis coach, was inspired by a real-life individual observed on the island. Gerster's fascination with the man's apparent longing for happiness amidst obvious loneliness spurred the creation of the story. Sam Riley, a seasoned actor known for his roles in films like "Control", joined forces with Gerster to bring the story to life, drawing parallels between his own unfulfillment in life and his character. His on-screen counterpart, also a tennis coach, serves as a platform for Riley to delve deeper into the character's emotional journey.
