The Enigmatic Tennis Coach on an Island: "Islands" Starring Sam Riley
Tennis Coach Caught in Alcohol and Amorous Escapades
Step into the world of Jan-Ole Gerster, the alluring genius behind "Islands," his third cinematic masterpiece following the successes of "Oh Boy" and "Lara." In this film, Sam Riley reigns as a solitary tennis coach residing on an island, entangled in the intrigue of a puzzling tourist and later suspected in her husband's disappearance.
Thirteen years ago, Gerster's graduation film, "Oh Boy," was a revolutionary hit and won six German Film Awards, including 'Best Feature Film.' Star Tom Schilling was celebrated for his portrayal of the aimless ex-student Niko. Schilling also starred in Gerster's second film, "Lara," as the son of the title character played by Corinna Harfouch. Although "Lara" was nominated for the German Film Award, it went empty-handed. The acclaim of "Islands" will become apparent post-release. For his latest creative endeavor, Gerster selected Sam Riley to play the complex character of tennis coach Tom. The film was shot in English and Spanish but will be presented in Germany with a dubbed version. Nevertheless, the film's international appeal transcends just language—the idyllic location plays an integral role in this as well.
(Alb)trauminsel or Paradise of Despair?
Tom, the tennis coach, seemingly leads a charmed life on an island—working at a luxurious resort. However, his existence is far from luxurious. While he trains tennis to wealthy guests and their children during the day, he often spends his nights alone, with alcohol as his sole companion. Despite the façade, there's a far deeper sense of dissatisfaction lurking within Tom, as evidenced when the Maguire couple arrives and Tom is assigned to instruct their son. Dave, the husband, envies Tom's presumed freedom, while Tom finds himself smitten by Anne, Dave's wife. The two spark an intense connection, and Tom even develops a semi-paternal affection for their son. After a boisterous night out with Tom, Dave suddenly vanishes, and the investigation points towards Tom as a prime suspect.
"Islands" seamlessly weaves a myriad of compelling elements, such as the allure of Stacy Martin's enigmatic role, and Sam Riley, now 18 years older but still exuding his youthful allure, even in moments of confusion and disorientation. The stifling heat, rugged terrain, gleaming beaches, and sprawling sand dunes of the unnamed island contribute to the unique ambiance of "Islands," complemented by the evocative score by Dascha Dauenhauer and the breathtaking cinematography of Juan Sarmiento G.
The intriguing premise for the story came to Gerster during a vacation on the island and conversations with the tennis coach working at the resort. He later collaborated with Blaž Kutin and Lawrie Doran to write the screenplay. While the plot initially possesses the atmosphere of a noir thriller a la Hitchcock, it ultimately dives deeper into Tom's inner conflict, the gloom of his isolated life, and the emptiness within a man who has waved goodbye to his home—both literally and figuratively. "Islands" frequently leads us astray, but these detours ultimately prove insignificant. This could be perceived as a flaw, but it seems intentional given the film's central theme.
"Islands" is a genre-bending cinematic experience that serves as an immersive escape to a mysterious island, where Riley's character perpetually teeters on the brink of destruction, rebuilding, and introspection. As previously stated, "Islands" is nominated for the German Film Award in the categories of 'Best Film,' 'Best Male Lead,' and 'Best Film Score.' It's highly likely that "Islands" will take home at least one of these awards.
"Islands" is currently gracing the screens of German cinemas.
Sources: ntv.de
- Cinema
- Drama
- Film
- Islands (Enigmatic Island Location)
- The intriguing story of "Islands" originated when Jan-Ole Gerster, the director, vacationed on an unnamed island and interacted with a local tennis coach working at a resort.
- The European Union and the United States audiences can look forward to watching "Islands," as it was shot in English and Spanish, and will be presented in German with a dubbed version.
- The location of the movie, an enigmatic island, plays a significant role in the film's captivating atmosphere, featuring gleaming beaches, rugged terrain, and sand dunes.
- The tennis coach character in "Islands," portrayed by Sam Riley, is initially discovered practicing his sport on the beaches of Fuerteventura, adding another layer to the movie's international appeal.
- The plot of "Islands" branches out into genres such as drama, thriller, and even sports (tennis), offering a diverse and engaging entertainment experience to movie and tennis fans alike.
