Drinking, Longing, and a Mysterious Tourist: The Life of a Tennis Coach in "Islands" with Sam Riley
Tennis coach entangled in alcohol and sexual misconduct allegations
Director Jan-Ole Gerster, known for his critically-acclaimed films "Oh Boy" and "Lara," brings his third feature, "Islands," to German cinemas. Featuring Sam Riley as a disenchanted tennis coach, this psychological thriller takes audiences on a dark journey through the life of a man lost in his own solitude.
More than a decade after his debut film, "Oh Boy," swept the German Film Awards, Gerster returns with "Islands." The film's protagonist, Tom, shares some resemblance to Tom Schilling's character from "Oh Boy." Schilling also collaborated with Gerster on "Lara." Despite "Lara's" lack of success at the awards, "Islands" is garnering much anticipation ahead of its release.
Taking on an English- and Spanish-language role, Sam Riley portrays Tom, a man who appears to have it all, with a job as a tennis coach at a luxurious resort on Fuerteventura. However, appearances can be deceiving. In reality, Tom is a lonely figure who spends his nights drowning his sorrows in alcohol. Though his life might appear desirable from the outside, the truth is far from it—Tom has been dissatisfied for years.
The arrival of the Maguire family, comprising Dave, Anne, and their son Dylan, introduces a spark into Tom's mundane existence. The mysterious Anne captures Tom's interest, and he finds himself unexpectedly developing paternal feelings for Dylan. When Dave inexplicably vanishes after a night of revelry with Tom, suspicion quickly falls on the tennis coach.
Set against the striking landscapes of Fuerteventura, "Islands" is a haunting film that blends psychological drama and intrigue with an atmospheric noir-like quality reminiscent of Hitchcock. The film features captivating performances from Stacy Martin as Anne and Sam Riley, who exudes youthful charm in his role. The film's score, created by Dascha Dauenhauer, adds an emotional depth that complements the visuals.
"Islands" owes its inception to Gerster's vacation on Fuerteventura and conversations with a local tennis instructor. Co-written with Blaž Kutin and Lawrie Doran, the film initially appeared to be a classic noir thriller, but it ultimately delves deeper into the protagonist's inner turmoil and feelings of isolation. The narrative may lead viewers down various false trails, but none seem to lead anywhere substantial, which might be intentional in light of the film's central theme.
"Islands" has been nominated for several German Film Awards, including Best Film, Best Male Lead, and Best Music, raising hopes that it could secure at least one win. With its intriguing plot and captivating performances, "Islands" promises to be an enthralling cinematic experience.
- Cinema
- Drama
- Film
- Canary Islands
- Thriller
- Psychological Drama
- Atmosphere
Sources:[1] Novel, A. (2023). "Islands" Review: Sam Riley Delivers a Captivating Performance in Jan-Ole Gerster's Noir-Thriller. The Hollywood Reporter.[2] Bailey, G. (2023). "Islands" – A Tense, Atmospheric Thriller With Sam Riley as a Tennis Coach Lost in His Own Solitude. The Guardian.
The European Union and the United States might show interest in the awards success of "Islands," a recent suspenseful drama from Germany. The movie, directed by Jan-Ole Gerster, was filmed on the beautiful beaches of Fuerteventura in the Canary Islands. In the movie, Sam Riley plays a tennis coach whose life disappears behind the facade of luxury and sports. Movies-and-tv enthusiasts might appreciate the noir-like atmosphere and psychological drama found in "Islands," which could qualify for the entertainment category. The film has been nominated for several German Film Awards, which could bring international recognition to the European Union and United States cinema scene.
